Show Me The Ozarks - October 2022

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When First Community bank was founded, we set out to start a true community bank; a bank that would change the landscape of our communities. Because of you, we’ve forged long-lasting partnerships that have made our communities better. We can all agree that a lot has changed over the years, but our promise to always be a true community bank remains the same. Our roots run deep; our commitment to you runs deeper, and the best is yet to come!

About the Cover

Travis Bolin and his daughter, Amelia, had a dream to open a slime business, and a year later they are still going strong at Journey Through Slime Event Studio & Scoop Shoppe. This month, they share the story of how a time of crisis in their lives led to a blessing.

features

Featuring Carthage

38 Carthage at the Crossroads: 56th Annual Maple Leaf Festival 2022

40 Williams Honored to be Grand Marshal of Carthage’s Annual Maple Leaf Festival

41 Faces of Carthage

46 Hometown Flavors of Carthage

48 Carthage Business Spotlights

51 Volunteering for Carthage

52 The Creative Edge - Whimsy & Wonder: Experience the Joyful Art of Beth Ytell Kang

54 Missouri’s Art Teachers of the Year: Alexandra Burnside and Cheryl Church

56 Why I Run - The Laidback Runner: For Brady Beckham, Running is All About Balance

57 Get to Know Julie Reams, Carthage Chamber of Commerce

58 Rising Star Golfer Addie Foust Ready to Roar for Lady Tigers

59 Carthage Lady Tigers Golf Star Star Shay Gaddis Strives to Take Her Game to Another Level

Home Living Design Guide

61 Your Realtor for Life - Great News for October Homebuyers

66 Your House Your Home - Flooring Updates for Your Home

Photos by Mandy Edmonson, Focused Memories Photography

in every edition

WHAT’S

12

14

15 Calendar of Events - Look to the skies this month to see hot air balloons in all their glory at a local festival.

If you’re feeling crafty, now is the time to create handmade fall décor at a local DIY gallery or take in some spooky outdoor fun on local trails. Enjoy regional music or a theater production at any number of venues. Enjoy all the fun October has to offer in the Four States!

18 Northeast

Home/Lifestyle

21 Tastes of the Four States - Kascade Steakhouse

22 ShowMe Dining Guide

101 A Naturalist Voice - Golden Hour in the Fall

102 The Great Outdoors - A Family Tradition, A Hunter’s Prayer, and more.

Can you find it?

Find the GREEN smiley face on one of our pages. Email sue@showmetheozarks.com with the page number and spot where you found it. Submit your entry by the 15th of the month. A winner will be drawn from all the correct entries and will receive a gift certificate from an area retailer. One entry per household please. Good luck!

Congratulations to Karen Welch, winner of the September edition “Find the Green Smiley Face” contest. Karen wins two gift certificates to McAlister’s Deli in Joplin, MO. The Green Smiley was on page 22 in the bottom right photo on the Spotlight on Carthage article.

Name: Address:

72 Breast Cancer Awareness Features: Surviving and Thriving with Breast Cancer

72 Rachele’ Davis

73 Tiffany Hayworth

74 Alicia Hughes

75 Rose Mary Ferguson and Shannon Parsons-McDaniel

76 Patti Burrington

77 Mitzi Starkweather

78 Beth Newman

80 Mammary Calamity: The Fight for Basic Breast Cancer

Screening in Men and Women

82 Joplin Outlaws Go Pink in the Park

83 Meet the Doctors

95 Health Events

96 Returning to Work After Breast Cancer

98 Pumpkin Spice: A mixture of nutrition

100 Insight Into Substance Use Disorder - Kimberly Fisher

Named Jasper County Treatment Court Commissioner

health other great reads

17 Horses of Hope Offers Unique Services for Help, Support

19 Show Me Carl Junction

20 Joplin Arts District

28 Join in on Apple Butter Makin’ Days

30 Ronald McDonald House Golf Tournament

31 Things We Love

35 Fashion Forward - Society Marketplace

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Call 417.455.9898 to place your subscription over the phone by credit card.

Graduate of Missouri Southern State University with a bachelor’s in marketing. I now have 13 years of experience in Sales, Marketing and Promotion. I work with my clients to discover the best way to market their company and get the most out of their investment. When the client sees results, I know I have done my job.

Staff

PUBLISHER/EDITOR

Lee Radcliff

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR/ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Sue Dillmon

ASSOCIATE EDITORS

Wendy Brunner Kathleen Swift

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

Kelley Talent Kristi Tucker

SOCIAL EDITOR/MARKETING ASSISTANT Cheryl Franklin

PROMOTIONS COORDINATOR

Jamie Emery STAFF WRITERS

Holly Hukill

Jeff Cantrell Kathleen Swift Don Lowe Larry Whiteley Bridget Bauer

Gary Stubblefield

Amy Howe Savanah Bandy Ann Leach

Allison Lee RiechmanBennett

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Angela Spieker Amy Howe Mandy Edmonson Tera Miller Ashley Caughorn

DISTRIBUTION Shelby Cagle / Gary and Desma Sisco

Show Me The Ozarks Magazine is published monthly by Show Me Communications, PO Box 3325, Joplin, MO 64803. Copyright 2022 all rights reserved. Reproduction of this magazine, in part or in whole, is prohibited without written permission from SMTO. Subscription rates: $19.99 for one year, $32.99 for two years, $41.99 for three years. Advertising rates sent on request. Unsolicited manuscripts, photographs, and art will not be returned unless accompanied by self-addressed envelope with sufficient postage.

NOTE: Information published herein is subject to change without notice. Reproduction in whole or in part is strictly prohibited by law. SMTO makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of published information, however the publisher cannot be held responsible for any consequences arising from errors or omissions. SMTO does not take responsibility for, or always endorse the opinions of contributors or advertisers. SMTO reserves the right to not run an ad or article that is reviewed to be in bad taste or goes against the focus or mission of that of Show Me The Ozarks Magazine. Editor photo by Hannah Sanderson Photography.

From daily routines to major milestones, Liberty is here for you, providing safe, reliable service to power the moments that make up a lifetime.

Finding the Magic

If you are looking for inspiration, our October issue is full of people who are following their dreams, living a life of service and real-life heroes/survivors. This issue is magical.

On the cover, we feature Journey Through Slime Event Studio & Scoop Shoppe. This local business was a dream of an 11-year-old girl, Amelia, that became a reality. Travis Bolin, Amelia’s father, began supporting her love for slime by turning their dining room into a slime-making space, and that journey grew to a slime-making business on Main Street in Joplin. This story is the perfect combination of turning lemons into lemonade and faith.

From the crowning of the Maple Leaf Queen to the parade, the Carthage Chamber of Commerce offers up an abundance of fun events for all to enjoy. The 56th Annual Maple Leaf Festival presented by Mercy Hospital Carthage begins Saturday, September 30, with The Mousetrap by Agatha Christie and ends Saturday, October 15, with a car show. This 15-day event has something for everyone to enjoy with many events supporting local charities. Turn to page 39 to plan events for the whole family and look for ways to give back to the community.

Each year, the Carthage Chamber of Commerce honors a leader in the community with The Athena Leadership Award in recognition of those who support, develop and honor women leaders and assist women in reaching their full leadership potential. This year’s award winner is Becky Purinton. On page 51, learn how Becky has been committed to serving others with every opportunity presented for over 20 years. Becky’s servant leadership and humble demeanor is truly making the world a better place!

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and SMTO is committed to spreading awareness, raising needed funds to support local breast cancer organizations and highlighting the journey of survivors. Starting on page 72, you will read about women who are surviving and thriving with breast cancer. They tell their story to help and support others, and they tell their story as part of their own healing journey. Each woman is different with one common goal – to be here for their family. Their ability to share their journey is just one of the many reasons these women are resilient.

Our 12th Annual Covers for a Cause will be held Thursday, October 27, from 9 am to 5 pm at Freeman Hospital West Main Entrance. The goal of this event is to bring breast cancer awareness to the pink carpet by capturing your family, friends and coworkers on a cover photo of SMTO. This is a fun event to spread awareness and honor the breast cancer journey of people in our region. All proceeds benefit Hope 4 You Breast Cancer Foundation. Come out and let’s support an amazing organization that does so much for our community!

As the leaves turn, cooler temperatures are around the corner and our Calendar of Events is filled with great fall events and activities. I hope you find your magic this October!

Lee Radcliff-Timmsen, Editor/Publisher editor@showmetheozarks.com

P.O. Box 3325 • Joplin, MO 64803 417.455.9898 • 417.850.5557

This content is also available at connect2culture.org/calendar.

Carthage, MO

September 30-October 2 & 7-9: The Mousetrap, 6:30 pm, Sunday 1 pm, Stone’s Throw Dinner Theatre, 2466 Old 66 Blvd. Reservations required; call 417.358.9665 or email stdinnertheatre@gmail.com. Tickets: Adults $29, seniors (55+) $26, students $24, youth $23, children (6-12) $12, children (0-5) free. More information: stdinnertheatre@gmail. com, 417.825.9213.

October 7: Opening Reception: 2022 Holiday Boutique, 6-8 pm, artCentral Carthage, 1110 E. 13th St. Meet the four featured artists whose work comprise this seasonal exhibit! Free; donations appreciated. More information: artcentral@artcentralcarthage.org, 417.358.4404.

Exhibits:

October 7-December 3: 2022 Holiday Boutique at artCentral Carthage, 1110 E. 13th St. Find the perfect handmade, affordable gift for everyone on your list during artCentral’s annual Holiday Boutique! Peruse décor, jewelry, accessories, ornaments and more. Free; donations appreciated. More information: artcentral@artcentralcarthage.org, 417.358.4404.

October 7-December 3: Small Works, Great Wonders Silent Art Auction at artCentral Carthage, 1110 E. 13th St. Creativity in a small package! Features the 5x7, mixed media works created and donated by artCentral artists. Although they may be tiny, these pieces demonstrate a wide range of skills, styles and talents possessed by some of the area’s finest artists. View all available pieces or place bids at artCentral or at artcentralcarthage.org. Free; donations appreciated. More information: artcentral@artcentralcarthage.org, 417.358.4404.

Joplin, MO

Performances:

September 29-October 1: The Haunting of Hill House, 7:30 pm, Dream Theater Co., 124 S. Main St. A small group of “psychically receptive” people are brought together in Hill House, a brooding, mid-Victorian mansion known as a place of evil and “contained ill will.” Please note: this show will include fog, strobe effects and jump scares. Reservations required; reserve your ticket at showtix4u.com/event-details/66550. Tickets: $15. More information: becki_arnall@yahoo.com.

October 6-9 & 13-16: The Charitable Sisterhood of The Second Trinity Victory Church, 7 pm, Sunday 2:30 pm, Stained Glass Theatre, 2101 Annie Baxter Ave. A hilarious and heartwarming play, the ladies of the Charitable Sisterhood meet to fulfill their sworn mission and organize a relief effort for homeless Guatemalans. Purchase tickets at sgtjoplin. square.site. Tickets: Adults $10, children ages 4-14 $5, children ages 3 and under admitted for free. More information: sgtjoplin@gmail.com.

October 12: PUBLIQuartet, 7-9 pm, First Presbyterian Church. An exciting program of classical, jazz, folk and contemporary favorites creatively reimagined for the string quartet. Free. Call or email director@ promusicajoplin.org, 417.625.1822.

October 13-15: Happy Days, 7:30 pm, Saturday 2 pm, Missouri Southern State University, Bud Walton Black Box Theatre. Based on the hit television series, Happy Days reintroduces one of America’s best-loved families, the Cunninghams, to a new generation. Additional details, including ticket prices, to come. Info: music@mssu.edu, 417.625.3002.

October 27: Joplin High School Orchestra Concert, 7 pm, Joplin High School Performing Arts Center. An evening of spook-tacular music and fun for all ages! See the young musicians of Joplin High School’s orchestra perform during this seasonal concert. Free. Info: kyleevanhorn@joplinschools.org.

Events:

All Month: National Arts & Humanities Month. A collective recognition of the importance of culture in America, NAHM encourages everyone to explore new facets of the arts and humanities, and to begin a lifelong habit of active participation in the arts. Visit C2C’s Joplin Arts & Cultural Calendar at connect2culture.org or sign up to receive emails that detail arts and cultural events happening in the Joplin area.

September 30-October 2: Rock-A-Thon: 23rd Annual Gem & Mineral Expo, 9 am-5 pm, Sunday 9 am-3 pm, 504 Schifferdecker Ave. Enjoy the amazing, wonderful world of rocks and gems, bead jewelry, learn to identify local minerals, participate in rock swaps, shop for beautiful gems, win door prizes and more. Free. Info: joplinmuseum@gmail.com, 417.623.1180.

October 1: Annual Joplin Stamp Club Show and Bourse, 9 am-5 pm, Granny Shaffer’s Restaurant, 2728 N. Range Line Rd. Bring your stamp or postcard collection to the annual Joplin Stamp Club Show and Bourse! Buy, sell or trade and visit with dealers from across the Four-State Area. All ages welcome. Free. More information: joplinstampclub@gmail.com.

October 1: Joplin Collectors’ Expo 2022, 10 am-5 pm, Cecil Floyd Elementary. With your best cosplay, see surprise guests, participate in a Super Smash Brothers Tournament or browse the comics, sports cards, toys and memorabilia offered from more than 60 different vendors. All ages welcome. Adults (ages 18+) $5, children (ages 17 and under) admitted free. More information: joplincollectorsexpo@gmail.com, 417.291.0192.

October 1: North Heights Porchfest, noon-7 pm, North Heights Neighborhood, 516 N. Byers Ave. Grassroots, family-friendly festival that celebrates local music, art, food and community. Free. More information: northheightsporchfest@gmail.com, 479.366.2005.

October 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30: Open Mic Comedy Night, 9 pm, Blackthorn Pizza & Pub. Join Joplin Comedy and try out your latest stand-up routine or take in the acts of local comedians, all while enjoying tasty pizza from Blackthorn Pizza & Pub. Age restrictions: 18+ until 10 pm; 21+ from 10 pm until close. Free. potterdakoda1982@gmail.com, 417.540.9186.

October 6: First Thursday ArtWalk, 5:30-8:30 pm, downtown Joplin. Dozens of artists will show or demonstrate their artistic process, and all art will be for sale. Participating artists will be located inside various venues along with live, acoustic music. Patrons are encouraged to “walk the art” through historic downtown Joplin! Free. lteeter00@gmail.com, 417.438.5931.

October 7: October First Friday, 7-10 pm, Just A Taste Webb City, 105 S. Main St. Kick off your weekend with the classic art of swing dance! Join Vintage Swing Movement (VSM) Joplin for a dance lesson at 7 pm. After the lesson, show off your new skills or kick back and enjoy live music from Jump Company during a social dance at 8 pm! Pre-registration encouraged; for information on how to register, visit fb.me/e/4QeYXs2SF.Tickets: Adults $8, students $5. Info: vsmjoplin@gmail.com, 316.243.8175.

October 8: Joplin Writers’ Faire, 10 am-1 pm, Joplin Public Library. Meet and greet more than 20 local and regional writers, win door prizes, enjoy book signings and more. For a full list of featured authors, visit fb.me/e/2mvFCuzK5. Free. Info: jill@ postartlibrary.org, 417.623.7953 x1041.

October 13: Joplin Writers’ Guild, 6 pm, Joplin Public Library, 1901 E. 20th St. Members have published novels, nonfiction books and articles. Dues $10 for the year, but anyone interested can attend their first meeting free. Information: s.v.farnsworth@ gmail.com, 417.691.0480.

October 13: JRAC Think Tank, 6-8 pm, Daria Claiborne’s Studio. Joplin Regional Artists Coalition (JRAC) invites its members to a come-and-go think tank at artist Daria Claiborne’s studio! Come for a little while or stay the whole time and learn about getting started in ceramics, ask questions, make suggestions for future events and more. Additional details to come. RSVP required; RSVP by emailing joplinrac@gmail.com. More information: joplinrac@ gmail.com.

October 20: Third Thursday, 5:30-8:30 pm, downtown Joplin. Thousands of people gather on Main Street in downtown Joplin to enjoy local artisans, music, entertainment and food. Free. More information: info@downtownjoplin.com.

Exhibits:

October 1-31: Art at Plant Parenthood, Plant Parenthood 417, 528 S. Main St. Plant Parenthood, a store that helps people experience, grow and decorate with plants, is not only dedicated to plants, but to local artists, as well! A variety of area artists display and offer their artwork for sale in this downtown, boho store. Free. More information: plantparenthood417@gmail.com.

Through October 29: Rhapsody: The Urban Fantasy Paintings of Rob Mango, Spiva Center for the Arts Main Gallery, 222 W. 3rd St. Rob Mango’s unique, three-dimensional paintings feature a variety of subject matter, including allegorical paintings of cities, male and female figures, and portraits. Free; donations appreciated. More information: jhenning@spivaarts.org, 417.623.0183.

Through October 6: Artists Behind the Iron Curtain, Missouri Southern State University Spiva Art Gallery, 3950 E. Newman Rd. In 1964, American college student Lee Freeman visited Prague and, by chance, met artist Jiří Mrázek. Mrázek was part of a group of artists who refused to adopt the state-sanctioned Socialist Realism style, thus, their work was not allowed to be exhibited or sold. Free. More information: bentley-c@mssu.edu, 417.625.9563.

Through October 29: Reflections of Joplin, Spiva Center for the Arts Regional Gallery, 222 W. 3rd St. In celebration of Joplin’s 150 years of colorful history, Local Color Art Gallery artists and their students will exhibit art in glass, oil, acrylic, watercolor, collage and mixed media. The exhibit will feature interpretations of historic architecture, famous Joplin natives and the lead and zinc mining that made Joplin a boomtown. Free; donations accepted.

Through October 29: Civilization, Surrealism & Humanity by Rob Mango, Spiva Center for the Arts, Main Gallery, 222 W 3rd St. A New York painter-sculptor, Rob Mango has shown extensively throughout the U.S. and Europe, with his artwork held in private and corporate collections around the globe. Free; donations appreciated. Info: jhenning@spivaarts.org, 417.623.0183.

Classes

Spiva Center for the Arts, 222 W. 3rd Street

Tuesdays: Creation Station (ages 6-11), 4-5:15 pm. Painting, drawing, clay, collage, sculpture and more. Pre-registration recommended, and space is limited in this popular class; register at spivaarts.org/classes. Cost: In advance $6, at door $8. More information: jhenning@spivaarts.org, 417.623.0183.

October 1: Intro to Digital Photography with Sarah Clements (ages 13+), 10 am-noon. Sarah will teach the basics of shooting in manual mode, composition, lighting and more. Bring a digital camera, and we will take a photo journey around downtown Joplin. Registration required; register at spivaarts.org/classes $25. Info: sclements@spivaarts.org, 417.623.0183.

October 1: Photoshop Basics with Sarah Clements (ages 13+), 1-3 pm. Sarah will guide students through basic Photoshop

functions. Students will learn how to edit a photograph from start to finish, just in time to enter PhotoSpiva, Spiva’s annual photography competition. Please bring a device with Photoshop and/or something to take notes with. A free trial can be found at www.adobe.com. Registration required; register at spivaarts.org/classes. Cost: $25. Info: sclements@spivaarts.org, 417.623.0183.

October 3: Intro to Encaustics with Jodie Sutton (ages 16+), 1-3 pm. Beginner class. Participants learn how to paint with beeswax and resin, also known as encaustics. Explore how to prepare wood panels, fuse, add color and build up texture on works. Participants will take home their own encaustic creation. Registration required; register at spivaarts.org/classes $40. Info: sclements@spivaarts.org, 417.623.0183.

October 15: Homemade Halloween Journals with Brenda Hayes (ages 15+), 10 am-noon. Create a spook-tacular journal with artist Brenda Hayes and get into the Halloween spirit! Registration required; register at spivaarts.org/classes. All supplies provided. $35. Info: sclements@spivaarts.org, 417.623.0183.

Create N’ Sip Studios, 223 W. 3rd Street

Wednesdays: Wine’d Down Wednesday, 5-9 pm. Canvas and home decor DIY event. Choose the project that works for you. Prices vary depending on chosen project. $28-$58. coleman@creatensip.com, 417.680.5434.

Saturdays: Saturday Morning Choose Your Canvas, 10 am. Select the painting you want to recreate and let the experienced staff at Create N Sip help you make a masterpiece. Prices vary depending on chosen project. Cost: $28-$176. Information: coleman@creatensip. com, 417.680.5434.

Local Color Art Gallery & Studio, 1027 S. Main Street:

Tuesdays & Wednesdays: Oil, Acrylic & Watercolor Come & Go, 2-5 pm. Stay up to three hours of painting time. Award-winning artist Paula Giltner teaches watercolor, oil and acrylic painting techniques and design principles. Bring any materials you have for the first lesson and learn about the materials you might need for additional lessons. $20. jnpgiltner@hotmail.com.

Tuesdays: Creation Station, (ages 6-11), 3:45-5 pm. A variety of media: painting, drawing, clay, collage, sculpture and printmaking. Explore the galleries with scavenger hunts and other activities. Preregistration recommended. Space is limited. $6 preregistration and $8 at the door. jhenning@spivaarts.org, 417.623.0183.

Neosho, MO

September 1-October 2: Thomas Hart Benton Art Competition and Exhibition, Neosho Area Chamber of Commerce, Big Spring Gallery. Local artists have an opportunity to show and sell their 2D artwork in a juried exhibition. Back for its 27th year, patrons can admire a wide range of talent possessed by both professional and emerging artists, and view winning pieces selected by judge Kim Kitada! Free. More information: neoshoartscouncil@gmail.com.

October 1: Neosho Arts Council Sidewalk Chalk Art Contest, 10 am–2 pm, downtown. Sign up at the Neosho Arts Council booth on the southwest corner of the Neosho square to receive your complimentary box of chalks and start creating. Judging will follow at 2 pm with cash prizes given to the winners of each age division. Details on the event can be found at neoshoarts.net/sidewalk-chalk-. One box of free chalks provided. Cost: Ages 6-15 free, ages 16-adult $10. More information: neoshoartscouncil@gmail.com.

October 20-22: An Evening of Performance, 7:30 pm, Crowder College. Working alongside faculty mentors, students have cultivated a unique experience that will be entertaining, thoughtful and fun for patrons. Rated PG-13. Additional details, including ticket information, to come. More information: natashaobriendavies@crowder.edu, 417.455.5458.

Halloween

Joplin, MO

Happenings

October 14-15 & 20-22: Historic Ghost Tours, 7:30-10:30 pm, Dream Theatre Co., 124 S. Main St. Explore interactive exhibits that highlight the ghostly macabre and unsettling stories of the Joplin area. Then, join a costumed tour guide for a walking tour of downtown Joplin, where guides will discuss current reported hauntings and the history of buildings along the route. Tours offered approximately every 20 minutes. All ages welcome. Tickets available at showtix4u.com/event-details/66893. General admission: $15. Info: becki_arnall@yahoo.com, 417.622.6470.

Ghostly Glades: Mysteries on the Glade, 6-9 pm, Wildcat Glades. October 22, 4:30-8 pm. The Wildcat Gang will tell stories about the unique animals you might see in Wildcat Park and their quirks. Refreshments available and a surprise photo opportunity to make the night truly memorable. Register at bit.ly/GhostlyGlades or email maddie@wildcatglades.org.

October 28 & 29: Haunted Pub Crawl (ages 21+), 8-10 pm, Dream Theatre Co., 124 S. Main St. Join Dream Theatre Co. as they explore the haunted history of downtown Joplin and enjoy “spirits with the spirits.” This event combines the interactive exhibits and guided walking tours of Dream Theatre Co.’s Historic Ghost Tours with drinks from Chaos Brewery, Main Street Axe Throwing, Blackthorn Pizza & Pub and Hackett’s Hot Wings. Tours depart at 8 pm and 10 pm. Must be 21 or older with valid ID to enter. Drinks not included in admission cost. General admission: $20. Info: becki_arnall@yahoo.com, 417.622.6470.

October 29: Spooky Science at CLA Creativity Lab, 905 S. Main St. Join the Creative Learning Alliance for an event about spooky science! Additional details to come. Info: neely@creativelearningalliance.org, 417.850.7137.

Noel, MO

October 8, 15, 21, 22, 28 & 29: Abandoned Passageway Lantern Tour, 7-10 pm, Bluff Dwellers Cave, 163 Cave Rd. Join us as we go down an abandoned passageway that has been closed to the public for over 50 years. We’ll tour the cave like they did in the old days, using only a lantern. The tour is about 45 minutes long and includes some spooky and scary surprises. NOTE: The passageway has an area where it gets narrow - about 24” wide - and could be challenging for some. Info: 417.475.3666.

Racine, MO

October 26: Trunk or Treat, Racine Christian Church, 5:30-7:30 pm. Bring your friends and family, dress up in your best family-friendly costumes. There will be games and candy!

Seneca, MO

October 30: Trunk-r-Treat, 5-6 pm, Seneca Church of Christ, 1820 St. Louis St. The community is invited to trick or treat; themed trunks will be ready with treats!

Stotts City, MO

Saturday & Sunday: Fall Season: Pumpkin Patch & Corn Maze, Country Roads Family Farm, 15144 Hwy 97, Saturdays 11 am-7 pm, Sundays 2-7 pm. Our theme is “Go West!” which means we hope you join us for a rootin’ tootin’ Western-themed one-of-a-kind time. Call 417.768.9959.

Grove, OK

October 22 & 29: Haunted History Hayride, 5:30-8 pm, Har-Ber Village, 4404 West 20th Road. Ride along and learn some local history with a few spooks along the way. See our new spooky historical characters! Call 918.786.6446.

Pittsburg, KS

Oct. 1-30: Woods Pumpkin Patch, 1108 S. 200 Street. Open Saturdays and Sundays 12-6 pm. Admission fee $8; 2 and under Free. Call 620.249.5223.

What’s Happening Calendar of Events

in the Ozarks

If you have an event you would like to see listed in the Calendar of Events, please email your request to: sue@showmetheozarks.com. Events are printed on a space available basis and must be received by the 5th of the month prior to the month of the scheduled event.

Columbus, KS

October 7-9: 53rd Annual Columbus Day Festival & Hot Air Balloon Regatta, Industrial Park, Highway 69 South and Merle Evans Drive. List of events and times at www.columbusdayballoons.com. Call 620.429.1492.

Pittsburg, KS

Wednesdays: Trivia Night, 7 pm, Drop the H Brewing Company, 107 E. Rose St.

Thursdays: Thursday Night Line Dance Lessons, 7-9 pm, Dirty Mule Restaurant Bar & Event Center, 134 S. US 69.

First Friday of the Month: Heavy metal bands, live music, 9 pm, Dirty Mule Restaurant Bar & Event Center, 134 S. US 69.

Second Friday of the Month: Drag Shows, 10 pm, Dirty Mule Restaurant Bar & Event Center, 134 S. US 69.

Last Friday of the Month: College Night w/ DJ A Baby, 8 pm-2 am. Free admission with college ID. Dirty Mule Restaurant Bar & Event Center, 134 S. US 69.

Saturdays & Sundays, 10 am-5 pm, Pumpkin Patch at Ole Yale Farms, 306 S. 250th St.

October 1: Hairball, 8 pm, Kansas Crossing Casino, 1275 S. US-69.

October 15: Larry Fleet with Megan Moroney, 8 pm, Kansas Crossing Casino, 1275 S. US-69.

October 19: Multigenerational Chorus: It’s a Swing Thing, 7:30 pm, Bicknell Family Center for the Arts, 1711 S. Homer St.

October 22: MMA Fight Night, 7 pm, Kansas Crossing Casino, 1275 S. US-69.

October 22: Outlaws Reloaded, 9 pm, Kansas Crossing Casino, 1275 S. US-69.

October 23: National Public Radio’s “Mountain Stage” records live in Pittsburg, 7 pm, Bicknell Family Center for the Arts, 1711 S. Homer St.

October 27 and 28: Once Upon a Mattress by Pitt State Theatre, 7:30 pm, Bicknell Family Center for the Arts, 1711 S. Homer St.

October 28: Wreaths Across America Mobile Education Exhibit, 10 am-3 pm, PSU Veterans Memorial, 1909 S. Rouse.

October 30: Once Upon a Mattress by Pitt State Theatre, 2 pm, Bicknell Family Center for the Arts, 1711 S. Homer St.

ArtForms Gallery Workshops, 620 N. Broadway, Pittsburg, KS. 620.240.0165 Check our Facebook page during the month as artists may offer popups.

Every Tuesday: Art Exploration/Weekly Beginning Painting, 12:302:30 pm. Free. Explore different art techniques. Feel free to bring something you are working on.

October 7: Wire-wrap a Pumpkin! 6:30-8:30 pm. Learn how to wirewrap a pumpkin cabochon made of glass. All supplies provided. $35, due at time of registration. Class limit: 8; ages 16 years and older.

October 15: Holiday Ornaments: Resin and Glass, 1-4 pm. Using resin, glass and other decorations, you will create two ornaments of

your own design. Simple glass-cutting demonstrated are used. $40, due at time of registration. Class limit: 10; ages: 12 years and older.

October 16: Ceramic Leaf Plates, 1-4 pm. We will make plates using real leaves as our guide. All supplies provided. $50, due at time of registration. Class limit: 10; ages: 12 and older.

October 21: Flower Power! Fused Glass, 1-5 pm. Using glass powders and water, participants will create a slurry and design a glass flower to be fused on a ceramic mold (face mask required). After drilling a hole, a copper tube will be inserted to make a free-standing flower for your home or flower bed. Ages 12 and older. $35, due at time of registration.

October 29: Neurographic Art, 2-4 pm. Neurographic art is a process used to help make new neural paths in the brain. In brief, a neural pathway is a series of connected neurons that send signals from one part of the brain to another. $30, due at time of registration. Class limit: 10; ages 14 and older.

October 30: Halloween Journal, 1-4 pm. Make a Halloween journal using a Sizzix machine, Gelli plates, paint and stamps. $35, due at time of registration. Class limit: 6.

Carl Junction Community Center: 303 N. Main St., 417.649.7237

Monday, Wednesday & Friday Pickleball: 6-10 pm, Tuesday & Thursday: 1-3 pm and Sunday 1-6 pm.

Tuesday Yoga, 6 pm.

October 1: Carl Junction Lions Breakfast, 8-11 am, CJ Community Center. Cost: Adults, $6; children under 6, $3. Call 417.439.7724. Carthage, MO

October 1: All-You-Can-Eat Breakfast, 9-11 am, Carthage Shrine Club. Public welcome. $7 per person. Call 417.317.0609.

Diamond, MO - George Washington Carver National Monument Visitor Center Free Programs. Two miles west of Diamond on Highway V, then 1/4 mile south on Carver Road. Visitor center and park grounds open daily 9 am-5 pm. Call 417.325.4151 or visit www.nps.gov/gwca. *Programs will be presented outside on the park grounds.

October 1: International Observe the Moon Night, 6:30-8:30 pm. This annual world-wide program encourages observation, appreciation and understanding of the moon. Join a ranger for an outdoor presentation and explore the moon with interactive activities.

October 1 & 2: Casting A Legacy - An Outdoor Art Walk, 1 pm. Join a park ranger for a short walk near the visitor center and explore commemorative artwork along the trail.

October 8: Hispanic Heritage Celebration, 11 am-2 pm. National Hispanic Heritage Month celebrates and recognizes the contributions Hispanic Americans have made to American society and honors various Central American countries.

October 9: Expressions of the Soul, 1 pm. Chat with a park ranger as they “paint a picture” of George Washington Carver and his artistic creations.

October 15 & 16: Women in George Washington Carver’s Life, 1 pm. Learn about the insightful women who mentored, encouraged and guided George Washington Carver on his life’s journey.

October 22 & 23: Encouraging the Next Generation, 1 pm. Learn more about how George Washington Carver mentored and influenced students at Tuskegee Institute and other youth who attended his lectures.

October 29: Bark Ranger Program, 9 am. Bring a leash and join a park ranger and a veterinarian from the Animal Clinic of Diamond for a walk and talk with your furry friend. You will learn the BARK Ranger rules, and your pet will be sworn in as an official BARK ranger.

October 2022 • www.showmetheozarks.com • 15 October 30: Epitaphs and Engravings, 1 pm. Discover the meaning behind the symbols found on the headstones at the Carver Family Cemetery.

SMTO

What’s Happening Calendar of Events

Joplin, MO

in the Ozarks

Saturdays: Joplin Empire Market, 10 am-2 pm, Joplin Empire Market, 931 E. 4th St. The Joplin Empire Market is the place to find the best in locally grown produce, gourmet foodstuffs and handmade artisan goods. Curbside ordering also available, and orders may be placed Tuesday at 8 pm until Thursday at 8 pm at http://localline.ca/joplinempire-market. Curbside pickup hours are 10:30 am-12:30 pm Saturday. More information: ivy@joplinempiremarket.com.

October 7: Joplin Area Welcome Club Luncheon, noon, Twin Hills Golf and Country Club. Lunch is followed by a program presented by Calvin and Vicki Cassidy on the Fascinating Bird Community and Bird Counting. Visit joplinareawelcomeclub.com or email joplinareawelcomeclub@ gmail.com for information or reservations.

Shoal Creek Conservation Education Center, 201 West Riviera Drive, Joplin, MO. The Shoal Creek Conservation Education Center is your local connection to Missouri’s fish, forests, and wildlife. Check out the native plant landscaping, exhibits or hike the trails. Purchase a fishing or hunting permit, attend a nature program, or watch for wildlife along the trails and banks of Shoal Creek. Enjoy a variety of free public programs throughout the year. Education Center is open Tuesday-Friday 9 am-5 pm and Saturday 10 am-3 pm. Closed Sunday, Monday and most state holidays. Call 417.629.3434, email Shoal.Creek@mdc.mo.gov or visit mdc.mo.gov/events for upcoming events. Parking lot, grounds and trail are open seven days a week from sunrise to sunset.

October 14: Little Acorns: Cave Critters, 10:30 am. Recommended ages 3 to 7. Inside caves live critters with interesting adaptations to help them survive this unique ecosystem. Learn about caves and cave critters and explore an indoor cave.

October 14: Fall Hike, 10 am. Meet at Shoal Creek gazebo. The hike will be about 1 mile long and rated easy with uneven surfaces.

Wildcat Glades Friends Group, 201 Riviera Dr., Joplin, Missouri. All programs are free of charge, but registration is requested. To register, please email robin@wildcatglades.org or visit our Facebook page for online registration options. Classes are limited to the first 20 students registered for preschool and yoga classes.

Every Monday: Yoga Classes on Monday, various times. Chair Yoga ($10/person, 30 minutes), ages 12 and up, will begin at 2:30 pm. Kids Yoga ($7/person, 30-45-minute class), ages 6 and up. Begin at 3:15 pm. Adult Yoga ($10/person, 50-minute class), ages 12 and up, will begin at 4:10 pm. Must pre-register. Sign up on our Facebook page or email maddie@wildcatglades.org.

October 8: Yoga in Nature-Adults, 8:30-9:30 am, ages 12+. This class is designed to incorporate elements of nature, breathing and yoga poses. Bring your yoga mat or a towel and a reusable water bottle. $10 to attend. You must pre-register. To register, visit our Facebook page or email maddie@wildcatglades.org.

October 8: Yoga in Nature for Kids, 10:30 am, free. Ages 4 and up accompanied by an adult. Bring your yoga mat or a towel and a reusable water bottle. Must pre-register. Please sign up by following the instructions on our Facebook page or email maddie@wildcatglades.org.

October 26 & 29: Preschool Program: Night Flyers! 26th, 10 am-12 pm; 29th, 1-3 pm. Learn all about flying mammals, aka bats. Register by going to bit.ly/NightFlyers, visiting our Facebook page or emailing maddie@wildcatglades.org.

October 27: Nature Explorers: Creepy Crawlies in the Leaves, 6-7 pm, ages 6+. Learn about all the critters hiding in the leaf litter. Register by emailing maddie@wildcatglades.org. Neosho, MO

October 1: Neosho Fall Festival, 10 am-6 pm, Neosho square. Vendors, crafts, food trucks, pancake feed, laser tag and more. Call City of Neosho, 417.451.8050.

By Don Lowe

Over the course of two and a half decades, Horses of Hope has remained dedicated to helping individuals with disabilities and at-risk youth through a unique approach for helping that is making a world of difference.

Vallerie Sweeton, who co-founded the organization with Shelly McColm and serves as head riding instructor and therapy service coordinator, indicated this worthwhile program “offers equine-assisted services and therapy. Our different types of services are therapeutic riding, hippotherapy and equine-assisted mental health.

“Therapeutic riding is recreational horseback riding lessons adopted to individuals with disabilities. Therapeutic riding is instructed by a Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH Intl.) certified therapeutic riding instructor in conjunction with volunteers.

“Hippotherapy refers to how occupational therapy, physical therapy and speech-language pathology professionals use evidence-based practice and clinical reasoning in the purposeful manipulation of equine movement as a therapy tool to engage sensory, neuromotor and cognitive systems to promote functional outcomes.”

Sweeton continued, “An equine specialist in mental health and learning and a mental health professional collaborate and partner with the horse and client.

“In mental health, horsemanship is not the goal, nor does riding typically take place. Instead, each session focuses on the client’s needs and goals, often incorporating activities or challenges with a horse to increase the therapeutic intervention.”

McColm, who serves as a mental health therapist, said, “Our objective during equineassisted mental health sessions is for the experience between the participants and the horses to create a template for what it is like to be safe in connecting and creating hope that if this can be possible once, it might be possible again.”

Sweeton said, “Our clientele tends to be from isolated populations and in this post-COVID

era, that’s even more so. The opportunity to feel safe and connected with their horses, our staff and volunteers is vital.

“The obvious, tangible benefits you can see, like improved physical state, improved posture, etc., are always there. But what people don’t always see or realize are the social and emotional impacts that being part of the barn family has on our participants.”

An important event coming early next month that helps support this cause is The Horses of Hope Gala that started in 2018 thanks to Jim Adams, general manager of Fletcher Toyota.

“Jim organized this event to help support Horses of Hope in all our endeavors,” Sweeton noted. “This year, we have an amazing musical guest, Confederate Railroad. There will be a great meal, and live and silent auctions.

“The community support of this event is overwhelming, and we couldn’t be more thankful to Jim, Fletcher Toyota and all the sponsors who make it happen.

“The many lives we have touched and helped in 25 years is what makes me most proud.

“It is always amazing to hear from someone who was part of the program more than 20 years ago talk about the positive impact we had on their lives. They still remember their horse who helped them.”

Horses of Hope Fast Facts

When it all Began : Founded in 1997 by Shelly McColm and Vallerie Sweeton

Why: The founders shared a passion for riding instruction and special education

Where: Locations in Baxter Springs, Kansas, offering therapeutic riding program; Rogersville, Missouri, offering hippotherapy, equine-assisted mental health services and therapeutic riding; and Miami, Oklahoma, offering equine-assisted mental health services, in partnership with MODOC Youth & Family Services

Who: Available for individuals of all ages and diagnosis

How to Join: Those who are interested in therapeutic riding or hippotherapy will have a participant’s packet completed by a guardian and physician. For Baxter Springs, call 620.674.3458 and for Rogersville, call 620.429.0390. Those in need of mental health services at the Rogersville location can contact Shelly McColm at 620.429.0390. For mental health services at the Miami location, contact the intake line for Healing House at 918.387.8720.

EVENTS

Northeast OK

Midamerica Outdoors Round 7 ATV Racing Series September 30-October 2, 42162 OK-127, Jay, 918.837.0079

The park and trails will be open to all to enjoy during this event. Plan a weekend away to enjoy the outdoors, off-roading and some of the best short-course racing action in the country. Tickets and camping reservations for this event will be available at www.midamericaoutdoors.com/pages/2022-events.

Dennis James on the Mighty Wurlitzer

October 1, 9 pm, Coleman Theatre

A live cast will perform the radio script from an episode of Gunsmoke as world-renowned musician Dennis James accompanies on the Mighty Wurlitzer. Tickets: Adult $20, senior $17, student $12

Warrant & Winger Concert at Buffalo Run October 1, 8 pm, Peoria Showplace at Buffalo Run Casino & Resort Tickets: $45/$35/$25

39th Annual Pelican Festival October 6-9, 6 pm, Wolf Creek Park, Grand Lake, Grove

Free live entertainment under the entertainment tent gets underway Friday night with a return visit by Tulsa’s Fabulous Mid Life Crisis Band. They are considered Oklahoma’s premier party band, and their performance begins at 7:30 pm. They have played from Tulsa’s BOK Center to backyard weddings and play a mix of classic rock and soul music. Karaoke by DJ 2Legit is set for Saturday afternoon, and Saturday night will feature Double Vision, the Foreigner Experience from Dallas. For more information, contact the Grand Lake Association at 918.786.2289.

Ottawa County United Way Pulled Pork Feed

October 20, 11 am-6 pm, First Christian Church, Miami

Order five or more meals for delivery to you, or order meals ahead of time for drive-through pick-up at First Christian Church in Miami. Meal will once again be prepared by Red's House BBQ and served/delivered by board members and volunteers from partnering agencies.

Dates and times are subject to change. Please call the Miami Convention and Visitors Bureau at 918.542.4435 to confirm.

Carl Junction just wrapped up its 25th Anniversary Bluegrass Festival September 23-24 in Center Creek Park. We had 10 wonderful Bluegrass bands over the course of two days with over 20 food vendors, 65plus craft/artist booths, and a BIG kids’ area with the newest addition to the festival - Explore at the Park!

We are already making plans for next year, so keep it in your calendar for the 26th Annual Carl Junction Bluegrass Festival September 23, 2023.

Halloween is just around the corner, and that means the 3rd Annual Carl Junction Trunk or Treat will be here before we know it! Over 900 kids will join us for candy, music, fun and food trucks. Free to attend and free treat bags for all. Save the date for Friday, October 28, from 5:30-7:30 pm in Carl Junction. We are thankful to have 360 Auto Service and Mediacom sponsor this event again this year!

Where it’s ‘COOL’ to be YOU!

We’re so glad we live in a world where there are Octobers! Keep reading for the best places to catch art and entertainment in downtown Joplin as we head into spooky season.

JOPLIN ARTS DISTRICT NEWS - A snapshot of news, events and activities happening in October.

Dream Theatre: A Playhouse of Local Performers. The Haunting of Hill House October 1, 7:30 pm. 124 South Main Street.

Brew Pub & Parlor. Garin Layne Music and Kooper Duckworth. October 1, 9 pm. 813 South Main Street.

Chaos Brewing Company. Free Trivia Nights. Every Wednesday at 6 pm. 112 South Main Street.

Celebrating 15 Years of Art Walk! Mayor Proclamation for First Thursday (and Third Thursday) Artwalk. October 6, 5 pm at Joplin City Hall. 602 South Main Street.

First Thursday ArtWalk. October 6, 5:30-8:30 pm. “Fine Art and Art at its Finest,” the ArtWalk is located in indoor venues with local musicians performing and area artists selling their art. Events are held on First Thursdays through October. Map posted on Facebook @FirstThursdayArtwalkJoplin.

Blackthorn Pizza & Pub. Comedy Open Mic held each Sunday. 21+. Free. 8:30 pm. Sign-ups at 8 pm. 510 South Joplin Avenue.

Chaos Brewing Company. Patti Steel: singer of pop and rock. October 22, 8-11 pm. 112 South Main Street.

Third Thursday is a free, outdoor community event on downtown Main Street. Enjoy music, entertainment, food trucks, artisan crafts and more October 20, 5:30-8:30 pm. See more information on Facebook @JoplinThirdThursday.

Open Mic Night. Fourth Thursdays at Joplin Avenue Coffee Company. October 27, 6:30 pm. 506 South Joplin Avenue.

Plant Parenthood. Throughout October, this eclectic plant store will feature artwork by Marta Churchwell, Merlen White, Daria Claiborne, Connie Miller, Brent Skinner and others. Meet the artists October 6 from 5:30-8:30 pm. 528 South Main Street.

Spiva Center For the Arts. Main Gallery: “Rhapsody: The Urban Fantasy Paintings of Rob Mango.” Regional Gallery: Local Color Artists show celebrating 150 years of Joplin in “Reflections of Joplin.” Upstairs Gallery: Local Color student art for “Reflections of Joplin.” 222 West Third Street.

For more events and activities, please visit Connect2Culture.org, DowntownJoplin.com and @JoplinArtsDistrict on Facebook.

ART ON THE WALL: Where to view locally made artwork on display in October.

Philip Ledbetter, “As the Pendulum Swings” Paintings

Beast & Barrel 530 South Main Street

Eric Beezley, “Confounding Ideas” Contemporary Paintings

Joplin Avenue Coffee Company 506 South Joplin Avenue Meet the artist October 6, 5:30-8:30 pm

Scott Leeper, “Mystic Lotus” Paintings Club 609 609 South Main Street Meet the artist October 6, 5:30-8:30 pm

Lori Marble, “Admirable Women: A Floral Abstraction” Contemporary Paintings Urban Art Gallery 511 South Main Street Meet the artist October 6, 5:30-8:30 pm

Countryside in the City is one of the leading florists in Joplin for fine, quality roses, flowers, plants and gifts for every occasion. Let our experienced designers and staff create a one-of-a-kind gift you will love. We also offer beautiful custom-designed wedding flower arrangements including wedding bouquets, centerpieces and boutonnieres. Open Monday-Friday 8 am-5 pm and Saturday 9 am-1 pm. Convenient parking.

Blackthorn Pizza & Pub is a welcoming and inclusive Irish pub in the heart of downtown Joplin. This hip spot is famous for its delicious food, huge beer selection on tap, the area’s best live music and unforgettable drag shows. Follow Blackthorn on Facebook for upcoming events. Open 7 days a week and now also open for lunch Thursday through Monday.

By Gary Stubblefield Photos by Mandy Edmonson

Kascade steaKhouse

Finally! I have wanted to try out Kascade Steakhouse in Carthage for quite some time now. When Lee, the publisher/editor of Show Me The Ozarks Magazine, gave me my assignment for October’s Taste of the Four States, I was so excited to accept it. The burning of eight tires took place as Mandy (with her daughter, Emma, in tow) and I peeled out to head for an incredible meal in Carthage. I apologize to my neighbors for the black peel marks I left on our street. But it was worth it!

Mandy, Emma and I were met at the door by the owner, Payam Sharifi. Payam has owned Kascade Steakhouse for four years now. The restaurant is located on Country Club Road, by the municipal golf course. Kascade is open to the public. While reservations are encouraged, they are not required. The atmosphere is relaxing, quiet and conducive to conversations and special occasions.

The Kascade Steakhouse menu offers a wide array of appetizers, incredible entrees and amazing desserts. Kascade isn’t just steaks, they also offer seafood options like parmesan-encrusted salmon, shrimp, calamari and more. Kids have four menu options just for them. Those seeking lighter fare will have plenty to choose from.

Kascade offers a full-service bar. For those who are not able to dine in, Kascade partners with GrubHub for delivery. Carryout is also available. Imagine what a hero you will be if you show up at the next potluck with Kascade’s artichoke dip or a lobster pizza. Go ahead, tell everyone you made it. Payam won’t mind (much).

Mandy, as always, captured great pictures of what Payam shared with us on our visit. Here is what we enjoyed, with a great assist from Mandy’s daughter, Emma, who was more than willing to help us try out everything.

First up was shrimp alfredo. I would say it was great, because Emma refused to share, and by the grin on her face, I knew it was good. Mandy and I shared the Tuscan parmesan chicken. Personally, I didn’t think it could get any better at that point. But then, boom, Payam laid down the mushroom bourbon pork chop, and I felt like my life had changed for the better. Heaven knows my life can always stand a change for the better. A separate side of au gratin potatoes was presented and quickly devoured.

Kascade is a destination restaurant for a perfect dinner. It is a place to unwind and relax after a long, hectic day. I also noticed something: not a single diner was on their cell phones. I’m guessing they did what I did: they turned off the world and enjoyed the experience. I also noticed a couple dining there, deep in conversation. I hated to approach them and interrupt them, but my curiosity got the best of me. It turns out that the lovely couple’s names were Dale and Gail Ellis, who had driven in from Monett to celebrate their 48th wedding anniversary at Kascade. Listen, guys, the secret to a long, happy marriage is taking your bride to Kascade for a pampered evening. Oh, and always saying, “Yes, dear.”

No column can be complete without ending with an exclamation point. At Kascade Steakhouse, that exclamation point is their famous Crème Brûlée! It is simply perfection.

at Crabby’s for a beautiful meal in an elegant, yet approachable finedining experience. Choose from a wide variety of fresh seafood, steak and chops. Enjoy libations from our full bar, including the best Scotch selection in town. Serving the four states for 10 years! Make

today! $$-$$$

Monday-Saturday

urban dining in historic downtown Joplin since 1995. Famous for fresh salads, smoked chicken dip, burgers, pasta, grilled fish and steaks. The menu has a wide variety of gluten-free, low-carb and keto-friendly items. Extensive craft beer menu and wines by the glass. Full-service catering for groups large and small. Consistently voted “Best Restaurant” and “Best Menu” by 417 Magazine and The Joplin Globe. $-$$

Monday-Saturday 11am-9

Casa Montez

4224 S. Main St. • Joplin, MO 417.624.2272

Casa Montez is back in business and ready to serve you! The team at Casa Montez is serving up all of your favorite recipes as before as well as their famous cheese dip. If you’re looking for the perfect Mexican cuisine including delicious tacos, enchiladas, fajitas and so much more, you must visit Casa Montez at their new location. Call ahead for your to-go order and conveniently pick up at the walk-up window. $-$$

Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 11 am-8 pm

Mis Arcos

1926 S. Garrison Ave. • Carthage, MO

417.237.0547

For the delicious authentic Mexican food you crave, there’s no place like Mis Arcos. We offer great choices from our mouthwatering quesadillas to sizzling fajitas to massive burritos, there’s a reason we were voted Best of the Four States for Mexican food! Did we mention our 2 for $5 margaritas? Mis Arcos is home of great food, fun times and lots of laughs! $-$$

Hours: Mon-Wed, 11 am-9 pm; Fri, 11 am-9:30 pm; Sat/Sun 11 am- 9 pm

Kascade Steakhouse

988 S. Country Club Rd • Carthage, MO 417.553.7357 • Like us on Facebook!

Kascade Steakhouse is Carthage’s newest spot for a delicious bite to eat. The chef is an expert in gourmet steaks, steakburgers, salmon and Italian food – his authentic alfredo is to die for. Come in on Fridays for the prime rib special. Under the same owners as Midway Café in Bartlesville, OK, where we are serving up the breakfast you have come to know and love. Dining room and lounge accommodates groups, events and weddings. $-$$

Open Tuesday-Saturday 4-9 pm.

Taste of Italy

4321 S. Chapel Road • Carthage, MO 417.358.2000

“The trouble with eating Italian food is that five or six days later, you’re hungry again.” Taste of Italy serves up delectable, authentic Italian food with new specials almost daily. Owner and Head Chef Aleks Sula was born in Albania and raised in New York City, so he brings 20-plus years of experience in traditional Italian and Mediterranean cooking to his menu. You can expect made-from-scratch bread, sauces, pasta and more. $-$$

Hours: Tuesday-Saturday, 11 am-9 pm; Sunday, 11 am-3 pm

Finn’s

E. 32nd Street • Joplin,

Finn’s is a semi-fine dining restaurant that caters to all your dining desires. Enjoy our dog-friendly patio and warm, inviting fireplaces. From our uniquely crafted cocktails, farm-fresh ingredients and Joplin’s best in-house bakery paired with our elegant, intimate atmosphere for small gatherings or a night out. Finn’s chefs are experts in their craft, with just the right touch to make your restaurant experience special. $$-$$$

Hours: Monday -Saturday: 11 am-9 pm

Sunday: CLOSED

Now serving Joplin’s best brunch! Homemade beignets, pastries, biscuits and gravy, peppered bacon, eggs and parmesan fried potatoes and more! For lunch, enjoy your favorite appetizers, “out-of-this-world” salads, seasoned breads and your choice of dressing, soup du jour, sandwiches from burgers to apricot turkey and over 30 other choices! We offer a full service catering menu for private parties, business meetings and special events. $-$$

Hours: Tues-Thur 11 am-3 pm; Fri 11 am-10 pm; Sat and Sun 9 pm-2 pm. We are available for out-of-house and in-house events and catering 7 days a week.

Just a Taste

105 S. Main St. • Webb City, MO 417.673.9463 • www.justatastemo.com

Just A Taste Webb City has a plethora of incredible spaces for you to try out. Every time you come in, you can have a unique experience. Visit our tasting room, which features our own wine made in St. James, Missouri. Or, join us for dinner in our intimate restaurant or indoor courtyard, where we feature a farm-to-table menu. Or, stop in for a drink in our cozy cocktail bar featuring an inventive cocktail menu and hundreds of beer and spirits. $$-$$$. Check Facebook for hours.

Shawanoe Restaurant

70220 East Hwy 60 • Wyandotte, OK 888.992 SKY1

Shawanoe Restaurant, located inside Indigo Sky Casino is serving delicious award-winning Chef creations daily. Bring your family and friends and enjoy delicious desserts, gourmet sandwiches, upscale salads, and a wonderful selection of pasta dishes. For the steak lover, mouth-watering steaks cooked to perfection. Featuring our 2.5 pound bone-in tomahawk ribeye with a variety of seafood and poultry. Everything to satisfy your appetite, plus your favorite beverage. Go to indigoskycasino.com for additional information. Located inside Indigo Sky Casino, Hwy 60 West of Seneca, MO. $-$$$

Undercliff Grill & Bar

6835 Old Highway 71 • Joplin, MO

417.629.2869 • www.theundercliffgrill.com

Undercliff Grill & Bar is back in business! This historical restaurant has been brought back to life under new ownership, so come by to grab a bite to eat and see what’s new. Chow down on some good old-fashioned comfort food or grab a beer at the bar. Undercliff Grill & Bar is the perfect spot for breakfast, lunch, a date or a night out with friends and family. Follow Undercliff Grill & Bar on Facebook to learn more! $-$$.

Hours: Wednesday-Friday, 11 am-9 pm; Saturday, 9 am-9 pm; Sunday, 9 am-3 pm.

Sam’s Cellar Bar & Oven

101 N. Wood • Neosho, MO 417.451.3330

www.samscellar.com

Sam’s Cellar offers a unique dining experience in a historic building with a modern twist! Enjoy gourmet wood-fired pizzas or specialty salads, wraps and subs. The full bar offers signature cocktails and wine flights to wet your whistle. Have a special event coming up? Request to have your party at Sam’s Cellar. It’ll be a night your guests never forget! $-$$

Hours: Monday-Saturday, 11 am-1 am; Sunday, 11 am-12 am

Haven 55

408 Havenhurst Drive • Pineville, MO

417.223.2055 • www.haven55.com

Haven 55 is a cozy country restaurant with a magnificent view, delicious homestyle food and exceptional service. The culinary masterpieces from Owner and Executive Chef Alan Bone cannot be beat. You will love the New York strip steak with blue cheese cream sauce, the fried green beans, and you don’t want to miss Wednesday Night prime rib! Located on the site of the old Havenhurst Mill, built in 1868, this historical restaurant overlooks the dam on Little Sugar Creek. $-$$$

Hours: Tues – Sat for Lunch, 11 am – 2 pm and Dinner, 5 pm–9 pm.

Bailey’s Family Dining

Briarbrook Dr. • Carl Junction, MO

Like us on Facebook!

Bailey’s restaurant offers a variety of home-cooked meals that are sure to satisfy. Enjoy one of our many delicious burgers with hand-breaded onion rings or try a pulled pork chimichanga. On the weekend, join us for breakfast where everything is made from scratch. From sweet to savory, we offer specialty pancakes, omelets and all your breakfast favorites. $-$$

Hours: Monday-Friday 11 am-10 pm; Saturday-Sunday 7 am-10 pm.

ShowMe Dining Guide

These $ categories are based upon the average cost of a dinner entree excluding drinks, desserts, and/or gratuities.

NOTE: Some restaurant entree prices do not include a’la carte sides or salad.

BAILEY’S - CARL JUNCTION, MO

- $9 and under

- $10 - $15

$15 - $20

- $20 &

1200 Briarbrook Drive. Bailey’s restaurant offers a variety of homecooked meals that are sure to satisfy. Enjoy one of our many delicious burgers with hand-breaded onion rings or try a pulled pork chimichanga. On the weekend, join us for breakfast where everything is made from scratch. From sweet to savory, we offer specialty pancakes, omelets and all your breakfast favorites. Open Monday-Friday 11 am-10 pm; Saturday-Sunday 7 am-10 pm. 417.781.2944. Like us on Facebook! $-$$

BLACKTHORN PIZZA & PUB - JOPLIN, MO

510 S. Joplin Ave. Blackthorn Pizza & Pub is a welcoming and inclusive Irish pub in the heart of downtown Joplin. This hip spot is famous for its delicious food, huge beer selection on tap, the area’s best live music and unforgettable drag shows. Follow Blackthorn on Facebook for upcoming events. Open 7 days a week and now also open for lunch Thursday through Monday. 417.623.2485. Facebook: @ BlackthornPizza&Pub. $-$$$

CASA MONTEZ, JOPLIN, MO

4224 S. Main St. Casa Montez is back in business and ready to serve you! The team at Casa Montez is serving up all of your favorite recipes as before as well as their famous cheese dip. If you’re looking for the perfect Mexican cuisine including delicious tacos, enchiladas, fajitas and so much more, you must visit Casa Montez at their new location. Call ahead for your to-go order and conveniently pick up at the walkup window. Open Tuesday-Saturday 11 am-8 pm. 417.624.2272. $-$$

CLUB 609, JOPLIN, MO

609 Main Street. “Treat your appetite to a GOURMET DELIGHT served ‘Joplin-style’.” Flavorful specialties for any occasion, featuring salads, burgers and sandwiches. Delicious entrees – beef, chicken, pork, seafood and seven “pastabilities!” Offering appetizers, homemade desserts, soup du jour, beer, wine and mixed drinks. Kids’ menu available. Kitchen open Monday-Friday, 11 am-10 pm, Saturday, 11 am-10:30 pm. Bar open later. 417.623.6090. $-$$$

CLUB 1201, JOPLIN, MO

1201 E. 32nd Street. Now serving Joplin’s best brunch! Homemade beignets, pastries, biscuits and gravy, peppered bacon, eggs and parmesan fried potatoes and more! For lunch, enjoy your favorite appetizers, “out-of-this-world” salads, seasoned breads and your choice of dressing, soup du jour, sandwiches from burgers to apricot turkey and over 30 other choices! We offer a full service catering menu for private parties, business meetings and special events. TuesdayThursday 11 am-3 pm; Friday 11 am-10 pm; Saturday and Sunday 9 pm-2 pm. We are available for out-of-house and in-house events and catering 7 days a week. 417.626.0032. $-$$

CRABBY’S SEAFOOD BAR AND GRILL, JOPLIN, MO

815 W. 7th St. Catering--Private Parties--Chef at Home. Dine at Crabby’s for a beautiful meal in an elegant, yet approachable fine-dining experience. Choose from a wide variety of fresh seafood, steak and chops. Enjoy libations from our full bar, including the best Scotch selection in town. Serving the four states for 10 years! Make your reservations today! Open Monday-Saturday 11 am-10 pm, Closed Sunday. 417.206.3474. $$-$$$

FINN’S, JOPLIN, MO

2707 E. 32nd Street. FiFinn’s is a semi-fine dining restaurant that caters to all your dining desires. Enjoy our dog-friendly patio and warm inviting fireplaces. From our uniquely-crafted cocktails, farm fresh ingredients and Joplin’s best in house bakery paired with our elegant, intimate atmosphere for small gatherings or a night out. Finn’s Chefs are experts in their craft, with just the right touch to make your restaurant experience special. Open Monday-Saturday, 11 am-9 pm, and Sunday: CLOSED. www.finnsjoplin.com. 417.624.3466 $$-$$$

GRANNY SHAFFER’S FAMILY RESTAURANT, JOPLIN, MO

2728 N. Range Line. Enjoy a great cup of freshly roasted coffee. Watch while we roast a blend! Homemade pies, cobblers, sweetbreads and rolls made from scratch daily. Serious breakfasts, salads, steaks, seafood, Mexican, pasta and Dixieland fried chicken or catfish. Ask about our banquet rooms and catering. “Good Old Fashioned Cooking.” Monday-Saturday 6 am-8:30 pm and Sunday 7 am-3 pm. www.grannyshaffers.com. 417.659.9393. $-$$

HACKETT HOT WINGS, JOPLIN, MO

520 S. Main. “The only wings better are on an angel.” Offering 13 flavors of wings, plus salads, catfish, chicken tenders, chicken sandwiches, hamburgers, boneless wings and more! Call for catering and reservations. Now offering an additional dining area and sports room with 17 big-screen TVs and full bar featuring Coach Hackett’s Ultimate Bloody Mary. Check out the online store at hacketthotwings.com. (Smoke-free) Open Monday-Thursday, 11 am-9 pm; Friday-Sunday, 11 am-10 pm; Monday-Wednesday Lunch Specials, 11 am-2 pm; Monday-Wednesday Happy Hour, 3-6 pm. 417.625.1333. $-$$

HAVEN 55, PINEVILLE, MO

408 Havenhurst Drive. Haven 55 is a cozy country restaurant with a magnificent view, delicious home-style food and exceptional service. The culinary masterpieces from Owner and Executive Chef Alan Bone cannot be beat. You will love the New York strip steak with blue cheese cream sauce, the fried green beans, and you don’t want to miss Wednesday Night prime rib! Located on the site of the old Havenhurst Mill, built in 1868, this historical restaurant overlooks the dam on Little Sugar Creek. Open Tuesday-Saturday for lunch, 11 am-2 pm and dinner, 5 pm-9 pm. 417.223.2055 www.haven55. com $-$$$

JUST A TASTE, WEBB CITY, MO

105 S. Main St. Just A Taste Webb City has a plethora of incredible spaces for you to try out. Every time you come in, you can have a unique experience. Visit our tasting room, which features our own wine made in St. James, Missouri. Or, join us for dinner in our intimate restaurant or indoor courtyard, where we feature a farm-to-table menu. Or, stop in for a drink in our cozy cocktail bar featuring an inventive cocktail menu and hundreds of beer and spirits. Check Facebook for hours. 417.673.9463. www.justatastemo.com $$-$$$

KASCADE STEAK HOUSE, CARTHAGE, MO

988 S. Country Club Rd. Kascade Steakhouse is Carthage’s newest spot for a delicious bite to eat. The chef at Kascade Steakhouse is an expert in gourmet steaks, steakburgers, salmon and Italian food – his authentic alfredo is to die for. Come in on Fridays for the prime rib special. Under the same owners as Midway Café in Bartlesville, Oklahoma, where we are serving up the breakfast you have come to know and love. Our dining room and lounge are accommodating to groups, events and weddings. Open Tuesday-Saturday 4-9 pm. 417.553.7357. Like us on Facebook! $-$$

MCALISTER’S DELI, JOPLIN, MO

2230 S. Range Line. You’ll be greeted by a massive menu filled with sandwiches, tasty wraps, Paninis, spuds, salads, soups and sweets. You’ll always have room for a brownie delight, lemon bar or fresh baked cookies. Everything is made exactly as you like it. Try a glass of McAlister’s famous Sweet Tea™! Gift cards, catering, to go orders. Sunday-Thursday 10:30 am-10 pm, Friday-Saturday 10:30 am-10:30 pm. WiFi enabled. 417.624.3354. $

MIS ARCOS, CARTHAGE, MO

1926 S. Garrison Ave. For the delicious authentic Mexican food you crave, there’s no place like Mis Arcos. Now offering a fresh and delicious lunch buffet for $7.99 from 11 am to 2 pm weekdays. Besides our wonderful lunch buffet, we also offer great choices on our menu. From our mouthwatering quesadillas to sizzling fajitas to massive burritos, there’s a reason we were voted Best of the Four States for Mexican food! Did we mention our 2 for $5 margaritas? Mis Arcos is home of great food, fun times and lots of laughs! Open Monday-Wednesday, 11 am-9 pm; Friday, 11 am9:30 pm; Saturday and Sunday, 11 am- 9 pm 417.237.05470 $-$$

MYTHOS, JOPLIN, MO

1306 S. Range Line. World-class service that sets the stage for a special dining experience featuring French, American, Greek and Italian cuisine. Choices include pasta, chicken, fresh seafood, and hand-cut aged Black Angus beef. Over 150 wine selections. Complete menu available at www.mythosjoplin.com. Serving lunch 11 am-4 pm, dinner 4 pm-close, Monday-Saturday. For catering or reservations, call 417.624.MYTH. $-$$$

RED ONION CAFE - CASUAL URBAN DINING, JOPLIN, MO

203 E. 4th. Casual urban dining in historic downtown Joplin since 1995. Famous for fresh salads, smoked chicken dip, burgers, pasta, grilled fish and steaks. The menu has a wide variety of glutenfree, low-carb and keto-friendly items. Extensive craft beer menu and wines by the glass. Full-service catering for groups large and small. Consistently voted “Best Restaurant” and “Best Menu” by 417 Magazine and The Joplin Globe. Monday-Saturday, 11 am-9 pm. 417.623.1004. www.redonioncafe.com $-$$

RED ONION ESPRESSORIA - 32ND ST., JOPLIN, MO

1007 E. 32nd St. This is the quick-service version of the iconic Red Onion Café. The Espressoria is located in south Joplin on 1007 E. 32nd Street and is a fast-paced, modern, quick-service setting with comfortable indoor seating and al fresca dining outside. Enjoy many of the original Red Onion selections or try one of Espressoria’s own creations. We are open 11 am to 8 pm, Monday-Saturday. 417.781.4999. www. redonionespressoria.com $-$$

SAM’S CELLAR BAR & OVEN, NEOSHO, MO

101 N. Wood. Sam’s Cellar offers a unique dining experience in a historic building with a modern twist! Enjoy gourmet wood-fired pizzas or specialty salads, wraps and subs. The full bar offers signature cocktails and wine flights to wet your whistle. Have a special event coming up? Request to have your party at Sam’s Cellar. It’ll be a night your guests never forget!. Open Monday-Saturday, 11 am-1 am; Sunday, 11 am-12 am. 417.451.3330, www.samscellar.com $-$$

SHAWANOE RESTAURANT, WYANDOTTE, OK

70220 East HWY. 60. Shawanoe Restaurant, located inside Indigo Sky Casino is serving delicious award-winning Chef creations daily. Bring your family and friends and enjoy delicious desserts, gourmet sandwiches, upscale salads, and a wonderful selection of pasta dishes. For the steak lover, mouth-watering steaks cooked to perfection. Featuring our 2.5 pound bone-in tomahawk ribeye with a variety of seafood and poultry. Everything to satisfy your appetite, plus your favorite beverage. Go to indigoskycasino.com for additional information. Located inside Indigo Sky Casino, Hwy 60 West of Seneca, MO. 888.992.SKY1. $-$$$

TASTE OF ITALY, CARTHAGE, MO

4321 S. Chapel Road. “The trouble with eating Italian food is that five or six days later, you’re hungry again.” Taste of Italy serves up delectable, authentic Italian food with new specials almost daily. Owner and Head Chef Aleks Sula was born in Albania and raised in New York City, so he brings 20-plus years of experience in traditional Italian and Mediterranean cooking to his menu. You can expect made-from-scratch bread, sauces, pasta and more. Open Tuesday-Saturday, 11 am-9 pm; Sunday, 11 am-3 pm. 417.358.2000. $-$$

TRACKSIDE BURGERS, WEBB CITY, MO

615 N. East St., Ste. A. Trackside Burgers is a locally owned hamburger restaurant in Webb City offering freshly made items to order. Chef Mike and his staff offer the oldfashioned hamburgers everyone loves and so much more! From homemade sauces and seasoned fries to perfectly prepared chicken sandwiches and onion rings, Chef Mike’s love for food and his heart to serve people make Trackside Burgers the perfect place for lunch or dinner Tuesday through Saturday from 11 am-8 pm. Call for information on catering for your next party or event! 417.717.116. $-$$

UNDERCLIFF GRILL & BAR, JOPLIN, MO

6835 Old Highway 71. Undercliff Grill & Bar is back in business! This historical restaurant has been brought back to life under new ownership, so come by to grab a bite to eat and see what’s new. Chow down on some good old-fashioned comfort food or grab a beer at the bar. Undercliff Grill & Bar is the perfect spot for breakfast, lunch, a date or a night out with friends and family. Follow Undercliff Grill & Bar on Facebook to learn more! Open Wednesday-Friday, 11 am-9 pm; Saturday, 9 am-9 pm; Sunday, 9 am-3 pm. 417.629.2869 www.theundercliffgrill.com $-$$

Apple Butter Makin’ Days (ABMD) is a valued tradition that has continued for more than five decades in Mount Vernon, Missouri. The food and craft festival is scheduled for its 56th year October 7, 8 and 9, 2022. ABMD attracts vendors and attendees from all over the country to Southwest Missouri for exciting activities for all ages, entertainment, shopping, contests, a parade, and, of course, apple butter.

“The fun, ‘old-timey’ atmosphere of this outdoor festival keeps the crowds coming back year after year,” Mount Vernon Area Chamber of Commerce Director Brittni Bates said. “We highlight mostly

local, unique, handmade crafts, and a wide variety of music genres are showcased on the ABMD stage headlining some of the best entertainment around.”

Friday morning’s schedule includes children’s games and contests comprising of terrapin and weenie dog races, nail driving and pieeating contests, a children’s pedal tractor pull, a mustache and beard competition, and the ever-popular queen and princess contests.

“The Saturday morning ABMD parade features Shriner vehicles of all kinds, along with marching bands, floats, horses, antique cars and tractors,” Bates said. “Bring the whole family out to watch the parade and then enjoy fun-filled attractions for all ages Saturday afternoon. Stir the copper pot on the courthouse lawn and learn about the tradition of making apple butter.”

Of course, it takes a coordinated effort from the entire community to make Apple Butter Makin’ Days a continued tradition. The City of Mount Vernon, along with a strong committee and hardworking volunteers, enable the ABMD festival to keep going year after year. Some community members have served on the ABMD committee for nearly 30 years and start planning the event at least 7 months in advance.

These community leaders work in conjunction with the Mt. Vernon Area Chamber of Commerce to bring quality crafters, delicious food from Lawrence County non-profit groups, excellent entertainment, and, of course, apple butter.

“There are not enough words to express how grateful I am for everyone who pitches in to make ABMD a success,” Bates said. “From city officials, grounds keepers, sponsors, chamber members, businesses that donate time and/or services, community members, the non-profit vendors who make and sell apple butter, and all who work behind the scenes should be applauded for everything they do to keep ABMD the best festival of the year.”

Provided by Brittni Bates, Director, Mt. Vernon Area Chamber of Commerce

Carrying on a legacy event like ABMD when so many other festivals have exhausted their longevity is a tribute to the citizens and businesses of Mount Vernon.

“This one weekend a year puts Mount Vernon on the must-see list for many people across the country. As a chamber, we support our local business growth, encourage economic vitality, and this is a catalyst to help keep those visitors and spending in our region,” Bates said.

Indeed, Mount Vernon is ready again this year to roll out the red carpet for all who are looking to have a great time at this jam-packed celebration.

Apple Butter Makin’ Days

Fast Facts

When: Friday, October 7-Sunday, October 9

Where: Mount Vernon, Missouri, Courthouse Square

History: The original intention began as a community-oriented event that would draw neighbors to the beautiful historic courthouse square.

Cost: There are no entry or parking fees, and the parade, car show and contests are all free to watch. Children’s games and activities, like the powerwheels knockerball, bounce houses and games, have varying fees charged by the vendors. Food and crafts are also purchased at a fee charged by the vendor or crafter.

Complete event schedule/details are available on the Mt. Vernon Chamber of Commerce website at www.mtvchamber.com. Also, follow the Apple Butter Makin’ Days (Official) page on Facebook.

Ronald McDonald House Golf Tournament On Thursday, September 1, 104 golfers participated in the 24th Annual Golf Tournament for Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Four States. It was a perfect day at Twin Hills Golf and Country Club, with overcast skies, great golfers, exciting prizes and an overwhelming sense of support for the work done at Ronald McDonald House of the Four States and Ronald McDonald Family Room at Mercy Hospital. In addition to the 26-team scramble, the event featured a golf ball drop, where members of the community purchased tickets in hopes that their golf ball would fall into a prize hole. This highly anticipated fundraiser was a huge success, thanks to the support of the golfers, volunteers, event sponsors and prize donors.

9

Eric Babbitt, Jason Osiek and John Crosby Larry Knoblauch, Larry Gollhofer, Richard Pim and Joe Landrith Kyle Bailey, Doug Borchardt, Harvey Dean and Richard Oler Mike Carder, Kyle Carder, Don Yocum and Jud Fisher Jared Allison, Will Sadler, Darrell Teresa Brown, Jacci Pim and Jerri Sargent Charles Thurston, Lisa Blythe, Annette Thurston, Gary Brown, Jerri Keith Lancaster, Steve Swearengen, Bryan Charles and Annette Thurston

Tracy Crider, Jason Keller, Clay Cole and Michael Matney Jill Palmer, Andi Atkisson and Wendy Whittlesey

Photos by Mandy Edmonson

Notable Outdoor Living

4600 US HWY 59 N • Grove, OK • 918. 810.2175

www.facebook.com/notableoutdoorliving/ www.notableoutdoor.com

We are Tim and Ann Bailey, and we are excited to be the new owners of Notable Outdoor Living. We invite you to stop by the store in Grove and check out our new Berlin Gardens product line, as well as other exciting additions, including the Iron Embers Outdoor Fireplace. We are also your area Big Green Egg dealer. We are open Tuesday-Saturday 10 am-5 pm.

One24 Boutique is a unique mother/daughter-teamed store that specializes in the unique. Located in Neosho, this smalltown store has gifts, home decor, one-of-a-kind finds and FASHION!! The new “One24 Rags” clothing line was custom designed by the two ladies! A portion of all proceeds is donated each month to the KU Bladder Cancer Department to fund a research scholarship.

Zena Suri Alpacas

35401 S. 580 Road • Jay, OK • 804.389.2579 www.zenasurialpacas.com

Fall is the time for lovely alpaca sweaters, scarves, shawls, hats and socks. The 49 alpacas and Stiggy the llama say you can’t go wrong with their soft, luxurious fiber and yarns. It’s hypoallergenic! Come and see (and feel) why some people think it is so much more elegant than cashmere. Meet them at Zena Suri Alpacas south of Grand Lake, Oklahoma. Call 804.389.2579 for an appointment.

Show Me Stickers

Facebook: @Show Me

417.529.0848

Express yourself! Show Me Stickers offers custom, made-to-order stickers to promote your business, artwork, message or to express your personal style! We specialize in bulk sizes, and all stickers are weather-proof and laminated for color seal and protection. In other words, you can stick ‘em anywhere! Show Me Stickers is an advocate for local artists and small businesses, so we can’t wait to help you create custom stickers to promote your vision!

Blue Moon Boutique

613 S. Main Street • Joplin, MO • 417.553.0826

www.bluemoonboutiquejoplin.com

Facebook: @Blue Moon Boutique Joplin

For accessories you won’t find anywhere else, shop Blue Moon Boutique! This eclectic boutique carries one-of-a-kind clothing and accessories, quirky home decor and gifts, locally made artwork and much more. If you love eclectic, boho styles, look no further than Blue Moon Boutique … your modern shop with a vintage soul!

Ozark Nursery

5361 N. Main • Joplin, MO

417.623.0224

• Find us on Facebook

Make your curb appeal pop this fall with vibrant mums, pumpkins and gourds from Ozark Nursery! Plus, be sure to check out their cool selection of air plants. Funky and low-maintenance, air plants are a great way to spruce up your space all year round. Ozark Nursery is a full-service, locally owned nursery and garden center that has served the Four-State Area for over 50 years. You’ll find plenty of trees, shrubs, annual and perennial flowers, and a landscape division to do installation at your home. Gayl and her team will always greet you with a smile!

The Vogue Boutique

144 S. Main • Carl Junction, MO

Just 10 minutes from downtown Joplin 417.649.7911 • shopthevogueboutique.com

Insta: @thevogueboutiquecj

Facebook: thevogueboutiquecj

The Vogue Boutique, located at 144 South Main Street in Carl Junction, Missouri, has all those hard-to-find brands in store now! If you are looking for brands like Kendra Scott, Julie Vos, OllieElla, Mackenzie-Childs, Hunter, Birkenstock, Ecco, Frye, Hobo, Liverpool, Ivy Jane, Mudpie, Nest, Tyler, Nora Fleming, Happy Everything, and more, be sure to check us out! We are only a short 10-minute drive from downtown Joplin. The friendly staff at The Vogue Boutique is always ready to help you find the perfect outfit or the perfect gift. Gift wrap is always FREE! Open Tuesday-Friday 11 am-4 pm and Saturday 9 am-4 pm. Shop online anytime @shopthevogueboutique.com.

Big R’s Pies

BigRsPies.com • 417. 437.3135

BigRsPies.com was 23 years in the making. Owner Twyla Housh sold the barbecue portion of Big R’s last year, but she and her mother Carla kept the pie portion and set up a commercial pie kitchen. Whole pie pickups are at Big R’s, Red Onion Espressoria in Galena, Kansas, and Chatters in Pittsburg, Kansas. No charge for delivery within Joplin city limits.

Trackside Burgers

1515 West 10th Street • Joplin, MO • 417.717.1161

tracksideeats.com

Trackside Burgers is a locally owned hamburger restaurant in Joplin offering freshly made items to order. Chef Mike and his staff offer the old-fashioned hamburgers everyone loves and so much more! From homemade sauces and seasoned fries to perfectly prepared chicken sandwiches and onion rings, Chef Mike’s love for food and his heart to serve people make Trackside Burgers the perfect place for lunch or dinner Tuesday through Saturday from 11 am-8 pm. Call for information on catering for your next party or event!

Spencers' Sweet Call at the Minerva

12 S. Main St. • Webb City, MO

417.717.5183 • Like us on Facebook!

Trick or treat, smell my feet, Spencers’ Sweet Call has the sweets you love to eat! This family-owned candy shop in the historic Minerva building has chocolates, housemade caramels, toffee, jelly-filled candies, 80 unique sodas, ice cream, pies, baked goods and more. Open Wednesday and Thursday 1-5 pm, and Friday and Saturday 9:30 am-6 pm. Special orders by appointment. NOW is a good time to order your Thanksgiving pies and rolls.

Society

4 S. Main St. • Webb City, MO • 417.717.0073

www.thesocietymarketplace.com

Facebook & Instagram: @SocietyWebbCity Society Marketplace has everything you need in one place! From boutique clothes, home decor, children and men’s clothes, facials, nails, lashes – they literally have it all! They want to make life easier for YOU! Not only that, but they make sure to have everything for EVERYONE! Styles range from children to high school clothes, curvy girl, middle aged and even past that! Society Marketplace is exactly as the name says – a community of people!

Wig’N Out Boutique

20 S. Main St. • Webb City, MO

417.717.5099 • www.wignoutboutique.com

For women with thin hair, no hair or who just want a change, look no further than Wig’N Out Boutique! You’ll always find a wide variety of wigs, extensions and hair pieces plus stylish clothing and accessories. The experienced stylists at the Wig’N Out Salon will help you complete your look … because “we’ve got you covered from head to toe!”

Hatfield Smoked Meats

7329 Gateway Dr • Neosho, MO • 417.624.3765

www.hatfieldsmokedmeats.com

Take your next party up a notch with a gourmet meat and cheese tray from Hatfield’s Smoked Meats! Whether you’re hosting a game day party, a holiday get-together or another kind of special event, you can be sure Hatfield’s party trays will be a hit with your guests. This family-owned and operated store specializes in fresh steaks, smoked meats, meat trays, snack sticks, beef jerky, summer sausage, meat for special occasions and more. Come in daily for one of our lunch sandwiches!

Extreme Sports Scuba

5203 S. Range Line Road • Joplin, MO 417.659.9009 • www.extremesportsscuba.com

This photo was captured by Drake Weston, diver, Dayle Chesten and a nurse shark. We offer beginning scuba and a large list of specialty classes.At Extreme Sports, we don’t believe in hidden costs. We supply all gear for the Open Water SCUBA Diver Course except for boots. The Open Water Scuba course is only $395 per person and includes educational material. We also offer a complete line of SCUBAPRO equipment and ask about our excursions and dive trips. Come see us and like us on Facebook.

S. Main St.

Webb City, MO

Facebook/Instagram:

www.thesocietymarketplace.com

We are an indoor marketplace located in historic downtown Webb City, Missouri, filled with a society of various local merchants. We help women who desire trendy clothing, uncommon home decor, distinct furniture and unique accessories go from overspent and frustrated to feeling accomplished, distinct and joyous. We believe you can discover fashionable gifts and stylish articles locally and affordably. With all your favorites in one marketplace, we offer a convenient and pleasant experience, whether you are shopping for yourself, a friend or both!

By Kathleen Swift

Photos by Mandy Edmonson

“About 6 years ago, Amelia and I were in a life transition,” said Bolin. “During that time, Amelia, who was 6, started making slime. She made slime almost every day at our home. A few weeks into her new love of slime, I was in the kitchen cooking, and I said a short prayer, ‘Jesus, why is my daughter addicted to slime?’ I instantly knew the answer, ‘This is her therapy during this transition in life.’

“That week, I transformed our dining room into a slime room with glue, activator, deactivator, slime containers, jewels, beads and so much more. Our family and friends nicknamed her the Slime Queen. Amelia would have friends over to play, and most of the time the play involved making slime for hours. Amelia was the slime expert. She taught everyone how to make slime; how to make slime look pretty, smelly, crunchy and even how to deactivate slime if you want it a bit stretchier. She truly was the expert in slime making.”

Amelia never outgrew her love of slime, and at age 11, she asked her dad if she could open a slime business. Together, they brainstormed what that business might look like, and after looking at several locations found the shop at 2310 South Main, Joplin. Bolin recalled, “The glass on the front door was very dusty. The glass was so thick with dust I had to wipe off a section of the glass just to see inside the empty building. As I was peeking through the glass, my daughter wrote on her section of those dusty windows, ‘Journey Through Slime July 3, 2021, Amelia was here.’ After I read what she

wrote, I said, ‘Amelia, by faith this is where Journey Through Slime will be.’”

In another step of faith, Carlye, Bolin’s girlfriend, quit her job and joined the business as one of the co-owners. On October 23, 2021, Journey Through Slime Event Studio & Scoop Shoppe held a grand opening just 137 days after Amelia had the slime business idea.

“A year later, we are still going strong at Journey Through Slime Event Studio & Scoop Shoppe,” said Bolin. “We have 13 amazing slime expert employees who help make our business run smoothly and who love helping our slime guests.

Amelia and Carly’s children, Abe, Jimmy, Carolyne and Penny, help around the business, too. Journey Through Slime Event Studio & Scoop Shoppe is a sensory-focused event studio. Slime guests can enjoy hand-dipped ice cream, shop fidget toys, make slime or even have a party in the party room.

For Travis Bolin and his daughter, Amelia, a dream led to a new business and a blessing.

"God can make the ugly in life beautiful if we allow Him to."

“Amelia’s love of slime continues, and she knows God took the messiness of our transition and created a blessing. We will never forget the heart of the why of our business. Life can be really messy, and slime is really messy. The more you work with the slime, the end result is this beautiful creation. That is how life is; the more you talk through the issues and get the help you need, life can start being beautiful.

“I have learned quite a bit over the past year as a co-business owner with Carlye and my daughter. First, the dream that my daughter shared with me a year ago of opening a slime studio made me realize never to

underestimate the power of a dream. Secondly, God can make the ugly in life beautiful if we allow Him to. My prayer is that when the kids and families take their slime home and play with their slime, it will be a reminder not to give up...to keep going and life can be beautiful.”

From the crowning of the Maple Leaf Queen to the parade, the Carthage Chamber of Commerce has a whole week’s worth of fun events for all to enjoy. We kick off the 56th Annual Maple Leaf Festival presented by Mercy Hospital Carthage beginning with Oktoberfest Saturday, October 8. Join us at Carthage Central Park for all-day fun with food trucks, live music, craft beer, kids’ games and much more. Sunday, October 9, is

the Annual Chili Cook-Off and Dog Show to benefit the Carthage Humane Society. Friday night, October 14, the Maple Leaf Car Show Cruise-In will take place around the Carthage square, and there’s the YMCA 5K and Food Truck Friday. Saturday morning kicks off the annual parade at 9 am followed by over 100 food trucks, arts and craft vendors, and live entertainment that will fill the historic Carthage square.

PRESENTED BY

Featuring Carthage

Sept. 30 - Oct. 2 / Oct. 7-9

THE MOUSETRAP BY AGATHA CHRISTIE

Saturday, October 1st

CARTHAGE LOBSTER BOIL: 4:30 - 8 PM

Friday, October 7th - Dec 3rd

ART CENTRAL HOLIDAY BOUTIQUE

Saturday, October 8th

MAPLE LEAF BICYCLE TOUR: STARTS 7 AM

Saturday, October 8th

MASONIC LODGE CHILD ID PROGRAM: 10 AM-2 PM

SAFETY FAIR: 10 AM-2 PM

QUILT GALLERY: 1-5 PM

BABY PAGEANT: 2 PM

TODDLER PAGEANTS: 4 PM

Saturday, October 8th

OKTOBERFEST: 3 PM-10 PM

Sunday, October 9th

CHILI COOK OFF: 12 PM-2 PM

DOG SHOW: 1 PM

DACHSUND DASH: AFTER DOG SHOW

Sunday October 9th

LITTLE PRINCESS & LITTLE PRINCE PAGEANTS: 2:30 PM

PRINCE & PRINCESS PAGEANTS: 2:30 PM

QUEEN PAGEANT: 5:30 PM

Wednesday, October 12th

NIGHT OF PRAISE: 7 PM

Thursday, October 13th

LIP SYNC COMPETITION: 7 PM

Friday, October 14th

CHAMBER COFFEE CONNECTION: 8 AM

YMCA 5K RACE: 6 PM

FOOD TRUCK FRIDAY: 11 AM-9

NIGHT: 5-9

Friday & Saturday, October 14th & 15th

ON THE SQUARE: FRI 11-2; SAT

MAPLE LEAF RODEO:

FRI 5-10 PM; SAT 1-6 PM, 6-10

Saturday, October 15th

FESTIVAL: 11:30 AM-10

ON THE SQUARE: 12 PM-5

CRAWL

FEED: 6 AM-10

9 AM

8 AM-5

DO" SENIOR BAKE SALE: 8 AM-5

SHOW: 9 AM-3

Saturday, October 15th

LEAF CAR SHOW: 8 AM-5

MEET: 8 AM-5

By Don Lowe

“It’s something not everyone’s asked to do, and just to be nominated is special,” says Williams, who retired as Carthage fire chief in 2021 after seven years in that role and more than four decades with the town’s fire department.

“A lot of good people have been granted this honor in the past. I hope I’m as worthy as them.”

Williams understands the Maple Leaf Festival is a big deal, and he says, “It is such a great opportunity for this community and others around us to come together for a great event that has something for all ages.

“If the weather cooperates, it can be a beautiful day with some great things happening throughout the city. Even if the weather isn’t perfect, people still come out and enjoy it. It’s a great time to see people you may not have seen for a while who are back in town for the festival.”

The festival is likely an even bigger deal to Williams because he’s spent his entire life here and served his city so admirably in such a distinguished career with the Carthage Fire Department.

“You go to work on any day, and you don’t know what will happen,” Williams says. “Every day is different and at any second, anything can happen.

“But really, the friends that I made throughout the years are special. The guys you work with really are your brothers. That is something you don’t find in many jobs.”

As for what made his career worthwhile, Williams says it was “the excitement and satisfaction of being able to come to the aid of folks who might have been experiencing the worst day of their lives. Sometimes you wished you could do more, but you always knew you did your best.”

There were great challenges as a firefighter and Williams says, “There were

times and events throughout the years that were very tragic and sad. But, I always found peace knowing I had done my best to make it a better situation.”

In considering the keys to such a long and successful career, Williams shares it was all about “always keeping a positive attitude and remembering to treat people with the respect they deserved.”

Williams takes pride in the work he did and says, “It’s so rewarding to have been able to serve the community where I was born and raised and have always been proud to be a part of all the time.

“Knowing people still look at me and know I did my best to keep them safe through all sorts of threats and emergencies is something I am very proud about.”

Much like with his job, Williams truly appreciates how significant the Maple Leaf Festival is to so many. “I am very proud to be a part of this because of the history behind it.

“It’s remained a shining moment in this city for many years, and I hope that continues for years to come. I rode in floats in high school and drove fire trucks many times and spent my years as fire chief as one of the lead vehicles. It’s always been a good time.”

Having a good time is what it’s all about, and Williams concludes, “I’m just glad I have been able to experience what I believe is a true Carthage tradition that is a one-of-a-kind event.”

Retired Carthage Fire Chief Roger Williams/Grand Marshal Maple Leaf Festival Fast Facts

Hometown: Lifelong resident of Carthage community

Spouse: Roberta

Children: Sons Danny Williams (wife Kiley) and Derek Williams (wife Abby) and daughter Melissa Santillan

Grandchildren: 10 grandchildren and 1 great-grandson

Education:

Carthage Senior High Class of 1975

Occupation: Served with the Carthage Fire Department from 1978-2021; became fire chief in 2014 and served in that capacity until retiring in 2021 after a 43-year career

Fire Department Service Thoughts: “Throughout my career, I always tried to serve the community with respect and compassion.”

Maple Leaf Festival Memories: “I enjoyed many years of helping with the annual Pancake Feed on the day of the parade and representing the Fire Department in the parade. Leading the parade with the police chief and sheriff was always a highlight for me. The smiling faces and waves from folks along the way is always great.”

As someone who has lived in the Carthage area his entire life, Roger Williams couldn’t have been more ecstatic to be selected as grand marshal of the upcoming 56th Annual Maple Leaf Festival.

Featuring

The Face of FRIENDLY HEALTHCARE

Amber Lasiter, Receptionist Freeman Clinic of Carthage

If you’ve ever called the Freeman Clinic of Carthage, chances are you were greeted by the friendly voice of Amber Lasiter. As the receptionist at the clinic, Amber makes sure patients are scheduled when they call with sickness or are in pain. She also schedules follow-up appointments and calls to ensure patients remember their upcoming appointments. Amber does this all while trying to make every patient smile at some point before leaving the office, or in some cases, over the phone.

“I enjoy being able to be part of the reason someone feels better,” said Amber.

While her days tend to ebb and flow with routine duties, Amber has times where critical thinking is important. “One day, someone called stating they were having chest pain and needed to see Dr. Smart,” she said. “I had explained to the patient with chest pain I would recommend going to the emergency department in case it is something with his heart.” The patient did just that and a few weeks later, he came into the office just to tell Amber thank you for saving his life because it was in fact, his heart.

Amber has been in the healthcare field for 5 years. At home, she and her family love to be outdoors and taking their Jeep trailing off-road.

W. Centennial

Carthage, MO

freemanhealth.com

The Face of YOUR LOCAL BOUTIQUE

Heather Orscheln - Owner Revel Boutique

Heather Orscheln is the creative mind and owner behind Revel Boutique in Carthage. When she started her business in 2012, it was less than 500 square feet and filled with consignors and her own selections. Now about to celebrate its 10-year anniversary in November, Revel is almost 3,000 square feet of big-city brands and curated collections. Heather and her team style you for any occasion through in-store experiences or live Facebook-themed launches for women all over the country.

Each day is unique for this small business owner, and that is what feeds her creativity. What Heather loves most are the relationships she has built and continues to build with her customers. “I want to be part of the pulse of each woman, her family, her career and her community. My customers have become an extension of my own family, and they will be a part of my life way beyond the years I own my business.”

Before opening Revel, formerly named Repurpose Boutique, she wore many other hats as a 10-year elementary school teacher in her community and then stay-at-home mom with her three now-adult children. After surviving a life-threatening brain tumor in 2007 with a lengthy recovery, she decided to dip her toe back into the working world and started small out of her home in 2009.   “I found I had a gift for making women and young girls feel confident in what they wore no matter what their budget or situation might be and loved the personal connection of styling them,” said Heather. Even during the Covid shutdown, she immediately pivoted to Facebook Live sales. She and her staff and even her daughters, who were sent home from college during the pandemic, would bring you a real-time runway show and try on every piece and share the fit, fabric and what size they wear and answer questions while drinking a glass of her favorite new cocktail. Her customers were sharing how each person was dealing with being isolated at home and it was more than a two-hour shopping show. They knew when Claire had an accounting test and asked the next Tuesday what grade she made. Heather said, "Not leaving my customers during that time of quarantine and taking my business onto Facebook every Tuesday and Thursday night for months with them is what tripled my growth since 2020."

Heather is excited to continue this journey with old and new customers as she grows and expands Revel Boutique’s in-store and e-commerce experience. No matter if you walk into her store on Peachtree Drive or if you catch her live while scrolling through Facebook, Instagram or Tik Tok, know she is running her business with the mindset of “revel in life because each day is precious, and we want to live it to our fullest, but don’t you really want a cute outfit for each of those days, though?”

500 Peachtree Dr. | Carthage, MO | 417.359.4127 www.shoprevelboutique.com

The

of YOUR LOCAL UTILITY

Carthage Water & Electric Plant

From Left to Right: Stephanie Howard, Director of Business & Economic Development; Shawnte Wofford, Customer Services Manager; Jessie Smith, Customer Service Representative; Cassandra Ludwig, General Counsel/Director of Customer Relations; Meagan Milliken, Customer Relations Manager; Savanna Jones, Customer Service Representative; Jessica Trout, Customer Service Representative; Martin Escobar, Customer Service Representative

Carthage Water and Electric (CWEP) has served the Carthage community since 1898, proudly providing the most reliable, cost-effective and efficient utility services to their friends and families.

CWEP recognizes the needs of their customers are everchanging and continually strive to meet and exceed customer

needs and expectations. “This year, we plan to complete a survey to gain insight on how we can better serve our customers,” said General Counsel Cassandra Ludwig. “We also want to increase customer awareness of different ways they can pay their bill and manage their consumption, as well as increase knowledge about CWEP and the utility industry as a whole.”

As a municipally owned utility, CWEP is community powered and would not exist without its amazing customers. “We consistently seek new and better ways to reach and assist our customers, and we strive to continually improve our performance so our customers can fully reap the benefits of their locally owned utility,” said Cassandra. Whether they are helping a new business come to town or a current business expand its operations, assisting customers with bill inquiries or payments, communicating information on social media, or volunteering their time at community events, CWEP employees always aim to provide the best service for their community.

627 W. Centennial

The Face of LOCAL LENDING

Rodney Hinds, Senior Vice President/Lender Southwest Missouri Bank

Rodney Hinds has been a lender with Southwest Missouri Bank for 15 of his 19 years in lending. He spends a lot of his time communicating with customers, listening to their situations and needs, and trying to develop a plan to meet those needs.

“Helping customers achieve their goals is what I love most about what I do,” said Rodney. “Whether it is someone building a new home or helping a small business expand, it is gratifying to be part of the process.”

Rodney looks forward to continuing to build on the relationships he has developed with his customers and is always looking to create the same trust with new and potential customers.

Rodney is very involved in the community. He, along with the bank, is always looking for new ways to help the community and customers grow and succeed.

When Rodney isn’t helping customers, he enjoys spending time outdoors and is a huge Chiefs fan.

300 W. 3rd St. | Carthage, MO | 417.358.9331

Faces of Carthage

2022

The Faces of WEDDING VENUES

Bruce and Christine Westwood - Civil War Ranch

Family is an important part of Chris and Bruce Westwood’s lives, so it’s no surprise when they decided to turn some old barns into a beautiful wedding venue to share with others.

In 2012, Chris and Bruce purchased the Civil War Arena and surrounding 78 acres. After some encouragement from family and friends whose weddings they had helped coordinate over many years, they decided to revitalize the 120-year-old barns. “We discovered the beautiful historic, although previously neglected, barns on the property that seemed to shout, ‘give me life!’” said Chris.

The Westwoods soon started inviting couples to enjoy the beautiful surroundings as a backdrop to the beginning of their histories together. Nine years later, Chris and Bruce have hosted over 350 weddings and have enjoyed expanding their circle of friends. “We love sharing this beautiful property with others and being part of a couple’s happiest day,” said Chris. “And it couldn’t be done without the help of our awesome team.”

11838 Civil War Ave. | Carthage, MO | 417.237.0771 | www.civilwarranch.com

COMMUNITY OUTREACH

Toni Smith, Executive Director

Carthage Crosslines Ministry

You will catch Toni Smith unloading a semi or any number of truckloads of donations that arrive, putting away donations, recruiting and overseeing volunteers, writing grants and any and all day-to-day tasks that arise. As the executive director of Carthage Crosslines Ministry, every day is unique for Toni.

Crosslines has been in the heart of Carthage for 38 years, dedicated to serving the community. The ministry has been providing food, clothing, hygiene products, diapers, linens, small household items, gifts and so much more.

“I love that we are the extended arms of God,” said Toni. “We help to feed and clothe His people. I’m so grateful when I see the flood of emotional gratitude when a client receives their food order and the worry over how they will eat diminishes.”

The ministry has grown over the last couple of years, tripling the number of individuals served. With that growth, the ministry needs your help. Reach out for information on available sponsorships that will allow Crosslines services to continue to grow and serve our community.

600 E. 6th Street | Carthage, MO www.carthagecrosslines.org

The

Ryan & Casey Brunnert, Dustin & Stacey Larsen Ott Food Products

Ott Food Products is a small family-owned business in Carthage. They have been at the same location since the start of their business in 1947 and consider all of their employees part of the family and wouldn’t succeed without them.

Famous for their dressing recipe, the team has worked hard to grow Ott’s as a household brand. “We have a lot of people who tell us that seeing or tasting our dressings brings back memories from being at their parents’ or grandparents’ house because Ott’s was always a staple item at the dinner table,” said Ryan Brunnert. “Family is an important thing to us and being a part of bringing back those memories is something that is very gratifying and we are proud of.”

Ott’s and their employees support local events in the community as well as many local school activities.

705 W. Fairview | Carthage, MO | 417.358.2585

www.ottfoods.com

Carthage, Missouri, has many restaurants, but we’re featuring four of our favorites that bring the hometown flavor we all know and love.

First, learn about the upscale dining experience offered at Kascade Steakhouse in our monthly “Tastes of the Four States” feature (see page 21). Next, read about the authentic Mexican cuisine of Mis Arcos. Meet Aleks, the chef and owner at Taste of Italy featuring gourmet Italian dishes and enjoy an all-you-can-eat lunch or dinner at Sirloin Stockade.

Here are your hometown flavors of Carthage!

A re you ready for a true authentic experience? Manny Maturino, owner of Mis Arcos, invites you to stop in for lunch or dinner for the best Mexican food in the area.

Mis Arcos has been serving Carthage and the surrounding area for almost 6 years. “We have customers that come in every week from Joplin, Monett and Lamar,” said Manny. “It’s great that we serve customers in our community and around our community.” Mis Arcos is popular for its two for $5 margaritas, fajitas and many other things, or as Manny said, “Pretty much

46 By Amy Howe

everything is a crowd favorite.” The addition of a lunch buffet is a crowd pleaser, too. Available Monday through Thursday from 11 am-2 pm and all-day Friday through Sunday, you’ll find many delicious items at an affordable price.

The next time you’re thinking about dining out, please be sure to swing by Mis Arcos and see Manny and his wonderful staff. They are ready to give you a true authentic experience.

Featuring CarthageSMTO

When you want top-quality homemade Italian food, Taste of Italy is the place to be. Owner and Head Chef Aleks Sula and his team have been serving guests in the area for almost 3 years and take pride in their exquisite cuisine. From homemade rolls to handmade pastas, Taste of Italy is the perfect spot for lunch or dinner. They offer everything from delicious

caprese salad to start your meal, to baked pasta dishes, seafood combos and scrumptious desserts.

Chef Aleks is grateful for the community of Carthage and his guests. He is passionate about crafting his Italian food and loves sharing it with those who visit.

“I’ve always cooked and prepared food, it’s what I do, and to get to serve the community makes me so happy,” said Chef Aleks. If you visit, you’ll likely get a chance to visit and meet Chef Aleks as he always makes his rounds ensuring his guests are happy and taken care of.

Don’t forget Taste of Italy can cater your next event. Whether it’s a family reunion, wedding or executive event, you can ensure you’ll have the perfect meal for the occasion.

There’s a reason why Sirloin Stockade in Carthage is voted “Best Buffet” and “Best Salad Bar” year after year. Sirloin Stockade offers an all-you-can-eat hot and cold buffet, which includes hot entrees, vegetables and salads. This includes great steaks, fried chicken, baked and fried fish, a multitude of side dishes and a scrumptious salad bar. The full-service bakery offers fresh rolls, pies, cakes and soft-serve ice cream with a variety of toppings. Sirloin Stockade still provides guests good food at a great value!

Sirloin Stockade offers an all-you-can-eat steak, shrimp and catfish every Wednesday from 3 pm until close as well as Seafood Fridays, where you can find all of your favorite seafood items, including baked fish, fried fish, garlic and herb shrimp pasta, peel and eat shrimp, fried shrimp, seafood salad and so much more!

There is something for everyone at your local Sirloin Stockade!

C’est La Vie Photography and Boutique

303 S. Main • Carthage, MO • 417.396.1327

Facebook: @C’estLaViePhotographyAndBoutique

“I love watching your families grow, your babies get older and, most of all, I love becoming your friend!” -- Caitlynn Morris, C’est La Vie Photography and Boutique

Photography is the beauty of life captured. From a very young age, Caitlynn Morris has had a passion for capturing those beautiful moments. Today, Caitlynn is known for her soft, dreamy family portraits, baby photos, maternity shoots and more. Stop into the C’est La Vie boutique for cute, unique clothing for all ages, accessories, gifts and more!

Carthage Olive Oil Company

337 S. Main • Carthage, MO info@carthageoliveoilcompany.com www.carthageoliveoilcompany.com

“The olive tree is surely the richest gift of heaven. I can scarcely expect bread.” – Thomas Jefferson

There’s a reason people have been cooking with olive oil since the 4th century BC. This kitchen staple is beloved for its flavor, health benefits and versatile uses. Carthage Olive Oil Company bottles more than 65 high-quality olive oils and balsamic vinegars, including a large selection of infused olive oil on the historic Carthage square. They pour samples and encourage tasting combinations of oil and vinegar Wednesday through Saturday, 11 am to 6 pm.

Going

S.

You will love visiting our fun little shop in Carthage! We have our own 18” Going Places doll and a wide assortment of handmade, quality doll clothing, shoes and accessories. You’ll also find puzzles, activity books, unique toys and cute stationery products for kids. We have something to delight every kid in your life! We also have fun fabric for quilting and crafting. Come see us Monday through Saturday, 10 am-6 pm.

Maple Leaf Coffeehouse

800 W. Central Ave. • Carthage, MO 417.237.9075

Maple Leaf Coffeehouse, owned by Derek and Robyn Maneval, opened in June 2020. Their mission is to provide “Hometown Love with Every Cup.” With a customer-friendly staff and warm atmosphere, where meaningful connections can happen. Specialty coffees, amazing crepes and caring team give their guests an unforgettable “taste of Heaven” experience.

Colonial House

342 Grant St. • Carthage, MO • 417.358.8454

www.colonialhousedecor.com

• Like us on Facebook!

We’ve expanded! In September, Colonial House moved next door into a larger space on the historic Carthage square. Since 2007, this family-operated store has brought Colonial and American Country home furnishings and decor to the people of Carthage and beyond. All of our furniture is made by American craftsmen and can be custom ordered to fit your home. Many of our tables, chairs, bedroom furniture and upholstered furniture are made by Amish craftsmen in Ohio. We also carry a wide variety of accessories for your home, including prints, candles, rugs, lighting and seasonal items. Come see us today! We are open Monday through Saturday, 10 am-5 pm.

Need new flooring? We have your floor covered! We have the newest waterproof Luxury Vinyl flooring and Shaw Lifeguard Carpet with a waterproof backing that protects against pet accidents and spills. Our floors will stand up to life’s messes! Come see us and we’ll help you design your dreams! Tuesday-Friday, 9 am-5:30 pm; Saturday 9:30 am12:30 pm. 417.358.0737

Big Dog Boutique

319 S. Main • Carthage, MO • 417.359.6740

www.bigdogboutique.com

• Find us on Facebook!

Big Dog Boutique is a locally owned shop just for dogs and is a shopping experience for dog lovers looking for something unique with an educated staff available to help create a plan to help your dog live their best life ever! We confidently select products that are beneficial to a dog’s overall health and well-being. Products include USA-sourced treats and food including FROMM, Open Farm, Primal and American Natural Premium as well as supplements, CBD, probiotics, vitamins and biologically appropriate foods, Americanmade collars and leashes for dogs of all sizes, and toys that are durable and safe. Visit our doggie spa with a full line of premium shampoos, fur sprays and skin/coat treatments. Opening midOctober is The Paw Spa, a bathhouse for dogs! Offering self-serve wash stations, wash services and a groomer.

There’s a little witch in all of us. Experience the magic of Spellbound Boutique on the historic Carthage square. You’ll find all things whimsical and unique in our eclectic little shop: vintage clothing, offbeat accessories, crystals, incense, sage and oddities and curiosities of all kinds. Prepare to be spellbound!

Mid

S.

Hit the road to adventure with Mid America RV in Carthage. Whether it’s weekend trips, work travel, even full-time travel, they have the right RV for you. Travel safely and with peace of mind thanks to their exclusive RV Warranty Forever protection. See more at www.MidAmericaRV.com.

Sirloin

1027

417.358.1765

Sirloin Stockade offers an all-you-can-eat hot and cold buffet that includes hot entrees, vegetables and salads. You’ll find delicious items like steaks, fried chicken, baked and fried fish, a multitude of side dishes and a scrumptious salad bar. Our full-service bakery offers fresh rolls, pies, cakes and soft-serve ice cream with a variety of toppings. Sirloin Stockade still provides guests good food at a great value! The staff at Sirloin Stockade is ready to welcome you for lunch or dinner. Visit us daily from 11 am to 9 pm.

Race Brothers Farm & Home Supply

2309 Fair Lawn Dr. 417.358.3529

Race Brothers carries a complete line of farm and home supplies including clothing, electrical, plumbing, lawn and garden, outdoor power equipment, tools, truck accessories, pet supplies, cattlehandling equipment, farm fencing and toys. Dedicated to providing the Carthage area with quality service and products for over 40 years. You’ll like the way we do business…tell a friend!

Bass Automotive LLC

2040 Suburban St. • Carthage, MO 417.359.8002

Find us on Facebook!

Bass Automotive LLC has been proudly serving the Carthage area for 16 years! This full-service shop offers everything from vehicle inspections to routine oil changes to complex engine repairs and computer diagnostics for both domestic and foreign cars. Owner Terry Bass’ expertise is backed with 36 years of experience in the field, and lead technician Ashton Campbell’s expertise is backed by ASE Certification and 19 years of experience in the field. Bass Automotive is a company founded on honesty, integrity and quality workmanship you can trust!

By Kathleen Swift

Each year, the Carthage Chamber of Commerce honors a leader in the community with The Athena Leadership Award in recognition of those who support, develop and honor women leaders and assist women in reaching their full leadership potential. This year’s winner of the award is Becky Purinton.

Known for her many volunteer activities in Carthage, Purinton says, “I try to make a difference in the community with every opportunity that presents itself to me.”

And there are many areas where Purinton has demonstrated strong leadership in going out of her way to help others, which is a hallmark of Athena Leadership Award winners.

For over 20 years Purinton has been a volunteer with the Carthage Chamber of Commerce in a number of capacities. She has served as secretary and treasurer on the Convention and Visitors Bureau board and helped on many projects.

Purinton reflects, “I believe being a volunteer and an active part of the community takes more than just attending meetings. Volunteering means looking for opportunities to serve, such as manning a booth at Food Truck Fridays.”

As chair for the annual Maple Leaf Festival since 2020, Purinton says the festival takes many volunteers to be a success. “This is our first year back with a full festival since COVID,” said Purinton. “We start planning the event in

February, and it takes volunteers for each portion of the festivities such as the lip-sync contest, the pageants, the car show, etc. We are always looking for volunteers to help. It takes a servant attitude and a willingness to give of your time to something important to the community. We work as a team, and Maple Leaf Festival is a complex effort that showcases our community.”

That servant leader attitude is also apparent in the way Purinton works with the high school girls at Fairview Christian Church. “First and foremost, I am a Christian and wake up grateful for another day and to live a life that is pleasing to Jesus. I am a part of a community group that started working with the girls at church when they were in 9th grade, and we stay with them throughout their high school years,” said Purinton. “I build a biblical relationship with them and live life with them. I attend their sports, musical and performance events. I am committed to being a positive part of their lives and help them through life events. They are in my heart. It’s a relationship that goes beyond just sharing God’s word with them on Wednesday evenings. We work hard to build a relationship with each girl.”

Her many volunteer activities made Purinton the winner for the Athena Award this year, but her humble servant leadership will make her a valuable part of the community she serves for years to come.

“I try to make a difference in the community with every opportunity that presents itself to me.”

– Becky Purinton

By Savanah Bandy

Author Ursula K. Le Guin once said, “The creative adult is the child who survived.”

She could have very well been describing Carthage artist Beth Ytell Kang. Beth started creating as a child and, to this day, her work retains a sense of childlike whimsy and wonder. You can’t help but feel happy when you view her artwork, characterized by loud colors, fun patterns and polka dots. She turns everyday objects into quirky characters, and even abstract lines and shapes seem to take on a life of their own.

“The world around us is one big inspiration for me,” Beth said. “So often, the unexpected and bold colors inspire me. The people that catch my eye, old buildings and nature fascinate me. Quite often I cannot get

what I see out of my head until I start sketching. When I put pen to paper, the creative juices flow.”

Beth grew up in Carthage, Missouri, where she showed an early affinity for art.

“My dad was an auctioneer and sold cattle at the Joplin Stockyards. When I was a little girl, I used to go with him on auction days and draw for the guys – a nickel a drawing – who worked the cattle scales and the livestock pens.”

Noticing her innate talent, her parents enrolled her in lessons at Spiva Center for the Arts. Later, in junior high and high school, she took a special class for budding young artists with local artist Virgil Lampton.

Featuring Carthage

Beth moved to California in 1986, which is where she met her husband, Chris. There, Beth had an illustrious career in the nonprofit sector and Chris worked in Silicon Valley. Now retired, the couple decided to make Carthage their home and made the cross-country move – much to the chagrin of their beloved cat, Oliver – in 2020. Beth said returning to her roots just felt right.

“No matter where I have lived, I made my way back to Carthage to visit my family. I also stayed connected with a lot of friends during the 40 years I was away. When Chris and I were married in 2002, we continued coming home for visits. Like a lot of people, we always talked about where we would live in retirement. My brother still lives in Carthage and home just pulled at our heart strings.”

Beth quickly got involved in the local arts scene and is now a member of artCentral Carthage, where she volunteers as a docent and shows her work in artCentral member shows.

“I love when people tell me my art makes them feel happy,” she said. “The world around us is full of color. I strive to put color in my life every day and in the lives of those around me. Nothing gives me more satisfaction than having people share what they see in my art. That is what the artistic experience is all about.”

“I

Beth Ytell

By Allison Lee Riechman-Bennett

Alexandra Burnside starts her day in her classroom at Fairview Elementary in Carthage, Missouri, where she teaches kindergarten through third-grade students. Student teaching first brought her to Carthage in 2013 after graduating from Webb City High school and eventually Pittsburg State University in Pittsburg, Kansas. Earning her Bachelor of Science and Education in Art Education, Burnside found her way into the Harry Krug Gallery in Porter Hall, the campus art gallery.

“Working in Carthage has been a unique opportunity in many ways. I was fortunate enough to be hired in a building with administration that allowed me to have the agency to create my own curriculum as long as it aligns with the state standards. That flexibility granted me the freedom to develop lessons that are both educational and good for the child’s artistic development as a whole. The art department in Carthage works together beautifully, and I have learned so much from Fred Mintert, Cheryl Church and Rachel Barley during my career. The Carthage School District has also allowed me to attend Missouri Art Education Association conferences in both the fall and spring semesters. These conferences are vital for preventing burnout and creating connections with other art educators.”

As an artist, Burnside finds inspiration in her community and the classroom. An eight-year member of the Missouri Art Education Association, Burnside contributes to organizations in the area, as well as the magical winter wonderland created by local artists in the historic downtown square’s shops and businesses. As a member of the Missouri Art Education Association, she serves as the representative for Missouri’s 9th district.

“I’ve always found great joy in creating artwork. I wasn’t entirely confident in my ability to create artwork consistently and with the

amount of discipline needed to support myself as a working artist, but I was passionate about art enough I wanted to share that in a way that mattered. When I enrolled at Pittsburg State University, I begin taking art education courses thinking that I would teach upper-level art or even collegiate art. However, after student teaching in an elementary classroom, I immediately found my niche. I love working with children. They are funny, genuine and wildly creative! It’s a beautiful thing to create opportunities for children that foster creative growth.”

Alexandra is also a member of the board of directors at artCentral, a community center that brings art to the local community. She is especially fond of artCamp, a program for children and adults involving gourd art, painting, sculpting, clay, fibers, glass art and more. Burnside considers her work with artCentral vital to the community, and her experience as a gallery assistant prepared her for that dedication.

“I’m thrilled to work with others who value the arts and artCentral. I love seeing the behind-the-scenes workings of the gallery. I believe my years of experience as a gallery assistant and in the field of education make valuable contributions to the board.”

Outside of the classroom and her time at artCentral, Alexandra enjoys thrift shopping and adding Mid-Century Modern decor to her home’s 1960s time-capsule theme. Pie baking and ballroom

“I love working with children. They are funny, genuine and wildly creative! It’s a beautiful thing to create opportunities for children that foster creative growth.”

– Alexandra Burnside

By Allison Lee Riechman-Bennett

Cheryl Church, a current board member and longtime artist member of art Central, has been a member of the Carthage community since 2002. Church has been a committed influence in the arts in Carthage and was named the high school recipient of Art Teacher of the Year for the state of Missouri.

Cheryl’s journey as an artist and art educator began by receiving her associate degree from Neosho County Community College, her bachelor’s degree in Art Education from Pittsburg State University and starting as an adjunct commercial art teacher for Neosho County Community College. Additionally, Cheryl taught for 3 years at Guernsey Noble Career Center after moving to Ohio, as well as obtained her vocational certification at Kent State University.

When asked what advice she would give to new teachers, Cheryl had this to say: “My biggest advice to a new teacher, be firm but be forgiving and understanding, as well. High school students are still children wanting to be adults, still needing your guidance and your respect, and they still need to be held accountable.

“I received a message the other day from a former student. She wanted to know if I remembered her and her sister. She said I was her lifeline. That is why I teach, that type of reward is more than a trophy or pin.”

In early 2002, Church accepted a teaching position at Carthage High School and has been teaching there for 20 years. During this time, she married Kyle Saving, her husband of 18 years, and received her master’ degree in Gifted and Talented at Arkansas State University. Kyle and Cheryl together have five children and three grandchildren.

“The students inspire me. I want to find ways to challenge them and make them better, which in turn makes me want

to be better. I honestly feel the students challenge me, as well. While I am searching for ideas to create new challenging lessons for them, I, myself, find myself challenged. I find myself wanting to create just as much as they do. Working alongside them is such a reward.

“One of so, so many memories happened this past school year. I had a student since her sophomore year, it was her senior year. I was presenting how to come up with ideas, how to mind map, tell a story through their art. I had been using this piece that I began from my own demo of mind mapping. Each year I would do something more to it from my sketch notes but would end up putting it down before I completed it. She shamed me in front of the class. She asked me if I was going to finish it before she graduated. I looked at her and said, ‘Challenge accepted.’ I finally completed the piece in February of this year and won an award with it in April.”

Cheryl’s art hasn’t taken a backseat to her teaching as her work has been displayed in several galleries, ranging from New York to Wyoming. She prefers watercolor and colored pencils when choosing a medium but loves working with all mediums. Currently, Cheryl is in the process of creating eight coloring books with imagery depicting Route 66 and the states the interstate is home to. In the books, readers can find written and illustrated stories Cheryl has collected on her travels along the blacktop of the Mother Road.

“Art is my passion. Inspiring young [and] upcoming artists has not been a job to me, but an amazing opportunity.”

– Cheryl Church

By Savanah Bandy

Some people run to lose weight, some to relax and others to compete. For Brady Beckam of Carthage, running is just a part of who he is.

“In some ways, I run because I always have,” Brady said. “I began running competitively in grade school with the Joplin AAU team. I gravitated to long-distance, focusing on the mile.”

He ran his first 5K at the age of nine. Less than a decade later, he ran his first full marathon just a few days shy of his 19th birthday.

“I run because it creates a gap between stressful days at the office and home projects.

It also helps offset pizza and whisky!”

– Brady Beckham

“I wasn’t competing at the national level, but I wasn’t slow either!” he said, recalling his first marathon.

Brady’s days of competitive running, training plans, heart-rate monitoring and calorie counting are behind him – today, he runs for the pure enjoyment.

“I do what our physical therapist friend calls ‘hippie running,’” he said. “I run for enjoyment, adventure, experience and to feel

good. I run because it creates a gap between stressful days at the office and home projects. It also helps offset pizza and whisky!”

Brady still enjoys running long distances, but he takes a laidback approach.

“I did the Bass Pro Marathon in Springfield with my wife, Chanti* but stopped for two beers at the Mother’s Brewing tent at mile 20.”

On another occasion, running a 50K in the mountains of New Mexico, he took his time to enjoy the scenery and took “a couple hundred pictures along the way.”

An experience in 2021 while running the Eliminator in Joplin made him realize just how far he had come since the ultra-competitive days of his youth.

“I finished 14 three-mile laps at the Eliminator in Joplin. The 42 miles I did that day were more than I’d done in any week the previous year. I needed three more laps to finish the event, but I was toast. I was ecstatic with how far I’d made it.”

He said his non-competitive approach to running came after he learned a lesson about enjoying the experience for what it is.

“In 1996, I took a wrong turn in the Neosho Dogwood Run 5K, and I ended up pouting in the car for 15 minutes,” he recalled with a laugh. “A few years ago, I took a wrong turn in my first 50K, adding a couple of miles – no big deal. Just part of the experience. When I resigned early from the Eliminator, it didn’t define my day. That isn’t why I was there.”

For Brady, running is a part of his identity. It’s something he’s always done and always will do, simply because he enjoys it. He doesn’t need medals or goals or pressure to drive him.

“I run because I get to digest my feelings and refresh my mental state,” he said. “Even when I let work take priority and miss a month of training runs, I know I'll come back to it wheezing and slow and wishing I hadn't lost the fitness I did have. But I'll come back nonetheless and enjoy the experience of getting my legs back just enough to support the next adventure.”

*Chanti Beckham was featured in Why I Run in the October 2019 issue of Show Me The Ozarks.

Featuring

By Kathleen Swift

Julie Reams has been a part of various local chambers of commerce for 30 years. She worked as a volunteer and served on boards and held positions with other chambers of commerce before taking the position of president and CEO of the Carthage Chamber of Commerce.

Q: What brought you to Carthage?

A: I have always appreciated and supported the work of a local chamber. My previous position at a neighboring chamber of commerce allowed me to broaden my skill set to promote local businesses through events and successful marketing campaigns. I was led to Carthage as the chamber president as I knew I wanted to lead an organization in a thriving community that supports its local businesses and helps the community grow, and 10 months into this role, we are thriving!

Q: What is a typical day for you?

A: No day is the same for me. Just when I have a plan, it changes, and that’s in a good way! If I am in the middle of a project and someone comes in to talk about the chamber or an issue, I stop what I am doing and listen. If they are coming to see me, I make time for them. My day starts at 4 am, and it may not end it until 11 pm. It’s long, but I wouldn’t want it any other way!

Q: What tasks are a part of your job?

A: I play a team role in every task. From marketing, business retention, promotions, books, invoices, even watering the flowers, pulling weeds or changing a light bulb. It’s what I do, it’s what WE do, and I couldn’t do it without our office manager, Erin Kitsmiller.

Q: What is a major event for the chamber each year?

A: The Chamber is known for administering the Maple Leaf Festival for

the past 56 years. It’s a huge annual event in the community and in the region. With over 60,000 people coming to Carthage to celebrate this event, it’s important to always keep it fresh.

We have an amazing Maple Leaf Committee that rolls up their sleeves each year to make sure all tasks are completed. No person single-handedly can even put this multi-day event on. It takes a team. Once this year is over, we will regroup and start the planning for 2023.

Q: What brings you the most joy?

A: I love, love the people here in Carthage, the businesses, the organizations, the whole community. Some days are a challenge, but I don’t want to be anywhere else!

Q: What do you do in your spare time?

A: I love to volunteer for projects that are going to make a difference and make an impact, whether it’s for the whole community or to help an individual. I take serving very seriously, and as a Rotarian, I practice “Service Above Self” every single day!

– Julie Reams

In my very spare time, I love to run long distances. It helps me plan my days at 4 am! I also enjoy crocheting, watching movies and being the biggest cheerleader to my three kids. They are all grown, but I am still their biggest fan cheering them on in life!

“I love, love the people here in Carthage. . .”

By Don Lowe

In recent years, Carthage Lady Tigers freshman golfer

Addie Foust has been drawn to this sport more and more as several things piqued her interest in stepping onto the links competitively.

“I got into golf for quite a few reasons,” Foust says. “First off, I always loved hearing my dad’s (Steve Foust) golf stories all throughout when he was in high school, into college and even the league he plays in with one of his good friends and work buddies.

“Second, when I was in 6th grade, we hit some plastic golf balls in our P.E. class. That’s when Coach (Carthage Head Coach James Newman) noticed me and invited me to his golf camp. After that camp, I realized I’d really like to play in high school.”

Foust remembers earlier this year, “Fast forward to my freshman summer, and my good friend and teammate Shay Gaddis reached out to me and asked if I would like to play with her. All this led me in the right direction, and I started practicing and playing all the time starting in July.”

Although she’s only been playing a short time, Foust has quickly recognized golf has its difficulties and affirms, “I truly believe that on the mental side, you must be able to forget about the last shot and focus on the next one. That’s a huge challenge in and of itself. And if you don’t practice, you don’t make progress.”

Carthage Freshman Star Golfer

Addie Foust

Fast Facts

Age: 14, freshman

School: Carthage High School

Parents: Steve and Beth Foust

Favorite Subject: Math and Athletic Weights

Favorite Food: Watermelon

Favorite Sports Movie: The Blind Side

Favorite Female Pro Golfer: Stacy Lewis, former Arkansas Lady Razorback star

“To me the key areas of golf must be driving and your short game, with chipping and putting. On the flip side, it’s key to have a good mentality and play with confidence all throughout your round.”

As for her favorite thing about playing golf, Foust says, “It must be hitting drives down the middle, sinking putts and the competitive side. All that is great, but I just truly love the people I have gotten to meet and the friends I’ve made.”

While Foust’s game is going to improve over time with more and more experience, she rationalizes that success right now is a result of “my competitiveness and drive to get better. And my determination helps.”

Coach Newman sees a great deal of potential in Foust. “Addie has great athleticism and understanding of what she is trying to do on each shot as far as her awareness. She has incredible drive.”

Foust is having the time of her life and she says, “The most rewarding part of playing golf at the high school level has certainly got to be practice. Without practice, there’s no way to make progress.

“Besides practice, the most rewarding part is my coach and my teammates. I couldn’t ask for better people. I know the next four years are going to be incredible.”

Those who follow Carthage’s girls golf team closely will likely see some incredible things from Foust over the next 4 years, as well.

Featuring CarthageSMTO

By Don Lowe

In only about a year’s time, since Carthage Lady Tigers sophomore standout Shay Gaddis first picked up golf in 2021, she’s become laser focused on taking her game to a much higher level.

While Gaddis has three more years of high school golf in front of her, she already aspires to play collegiately and perhaps even beyond.

“I think the most enjoyable things about golf are the community and the people you are around and how rewarding it is when you improve,” Gaddis says.

In considering aspects to stepping onto the links that can be difficult at times while striving for success, Gaddis shares, “I think the main challenge in golf is hitting a bad shot and trying to erase that shot completely from your mind.”

All challenges aside, Carthage Head Coach James Newman sees quite a bit of talent in Gaddis, and he says, “Shay is one of the biggest ball strikers I’ve seen in girls high school golf.

“That is the overwhelming strength in Shay’s game. I see her work ethic and drive as what leads me to believe she will only continue to improve.”

Shay says of her game, “I think the best part of my game at the moment would be my tee shots.”

As she speculates on areas on the links that are most pivotal to doing well, Gaddis says, “The key parts of golf are always going to be your short game.

“At the same time, you really have to spend a lot of time working on it and practicing to perfect that part of your game.”

Gaddis is serious about perfecting her play and, so much so, other sports do not interfere. “Golf is definitely my favorite and what I’m best at.”

Coach Newman couldn’t be happier to have the likes of Gaddis helping his Lady Tigers as they strive for success on the links.

While Coach Newman appreciates the skills of Gaddis and others, he can’t help but be particularly thrilled with how these young ladies handle themselves on and off the course.

“I’m proud of all my student-athletes for the work they put into golf, which is something they seem to love,” he says. “And they do this while balancing all the stresses of being a high school student.”

Gaddis handles herself as well as anyone on Coach Newman’s squad whether it is in the classroom or swinging a golf club, while playing an integral role for the Lady Tigers linksters.

Fortunately for CHS, Gaddis still has 2 more years of eligibility at the high school level after 2022-23 and is likely to just shine brighter and brighter as time goes by.

Carthage Sophomore Star Golfer Shay Gaddis Fast Facts

Age: 15, sophomore

School: Carthage High School

Parents: Dustin Gaddis & Jennifer Nichols

Sibling: Brooke Gaddis (13 years old, 8th grade)

Favorite Subject: Math

Favorite Food: Sushi

Favorite Sports Movie: Tin Cup

Favorite Female Pro Golfer: Nelly Korda

Home Living SMTO Design Guide

Whether building, remodeling, updating, or shopping for a new home, you’ll find everything you need to make your indoor and outdoor living spaces uniquely and comfortably yours!

Your Realtor FOR LIFE

Great News for October Homebuyers

By Gary Stubblefield The Stubblefield Home Team of Keller Williams Realty

Fall is officially upon us. Leaves are turning and mums are bringing autumn colors to front porches and flower beds. Make no doubt about it, fall is one of the most beautiful seasons of the year. But is fall a good time to buy a house? The answer is an unequivocal yes. Moreover, October historically is a fantastic time to shop for a new home.

Spring and summer are the hottest time for home sales. Those seasons provide the highest inventory but also bring fierce competition for buyers. After school resumes, fewer families want to move. Plus, many people do not want to move before the holidays. But for buyers and sellers, these are not factors during the fall months. Not only is October a great time to buy, the week of October 3-9 is considered one of the best weeks to buy in the year, according to Realtor.com.

The change in temperature brings with it several factors that are favorable for buyers in October. First and foremost, there is less competition from other buyers who may hold off until next spring to resume their search. Less competition can lead to fewer offers that you will be up against.

Leftover inventory from summer is a great motivator for sellers. Price reductions can occur and any and all offers are given more consideration. Some sellers are also motivated to sell by the end of the year, for tax purposes.

New inventory has fewer buyers competing. Many fall new listings can be motivated by upcoming job transfers, meaning there is a definite deadline to sell. Just because there are fewer new listings in fall does not mean new inventory doesn’t occur. The perfect house for you that wasn’t available in the spring and summer months may occur in the fall months when you are competing with fewer buyers.

As fall arrives, many aspects of the home-buying process are also favorable to October home buyers. Lenders have more time to get you pre-qualified. Home inspectors are more easily booked. Plus, inspections are easier for items such as roofs before the snow season occurs. Appraisers can often arrive earlier, and title companies have more time to get to your closing.

Ultimately, timing is everything. October and fall may be the best time for your new home search. However, as in all seasons, it’s important that you ask yourself the following questions: Are you financially ready to buy in the fall? Is your credit ready to buy now, or do you need a little more time to lift your credit score to qualify for the best rate? Are you confident in your employment and income? If the answers are yes, let’s get started today. Happy house hunting!

We offer a unique, simple and transparent process to owning a home - with no complicated paperwork or uncertainty! Choose to build a new construction home or browse a wide variety of quick move-in homes that are complete and available throughout Southwest Missouri and Northwest Arkansas.

Flooring Updates for Your Home

Flooring is an essential part of your home. You want your flooring to be practical for the space, comfortable to touch if in a bedroom or room where you spend time on the floor and you want it to add a sense of your style while hopefully increasing the value of your home. Regardless of whether you are building a new house or renovating an older one, your choices in floor coverings are abundant. And updating them is essential to keeping your home in good shape for yourself and for a future sale.

Flooring helps set the stage for everything else in the room. The type of flooring you choose will determine the style in which you decorate. Which flooring material you should put in a room should be based on how a room is used. For example, a hallway will get heavy foot traffic and will need a floor that can stand up to wear and tear, like hardwoods, tile or even the new luxury vinyl floorings. A bedroom floor will get less traffic, so the choice here could be softer and cozier, like a soft-fiber carpet.

Luxury Vinyl Flooring - One of the hottest areas of flooring is in luxury vinyl flooring or LVT or LVP. The flooring companies use digital printing to give these floors realistic looks in tile and wood. LVT has a wear layer, an image layer, a resilient core and backing — but it is generally thicker and offers greater levels of durability and design realism than vinyl tile. Many styles are also 100% waterproof, so when they are exposed to water they will not swell, buckle or lose integrity. If they have a waterproof vinyl core, they can be used in any room without the worry of it buckling should it get wet.

Carpet - Carpet is still a great option for your home as it adds softness, warmth and helps dampen sound. Carpet actually increases the insulating value of your home, as well. We all desire softness as well as style in our carpet, and the carpet manufacturers have added even more selections in colors and patterns. A patterned carpet such as an arabesque pattern will add instant drama to a bedroom or dining room while being soft under foot. Most carpets have some type of stain resistance, either on the fiber or built into the fiber. Look for one that has these characteristics to make it easier to keep clean. It is recommended that you have carpet steam cleaned by a professional at least every 18 months.

Area Rugs - Area rugs can add versatile splashes of color and pattern, which give a room personality. You do not have to settle for a pre-made area rug, any carpet can be cut to the size and shape you want and can be bound at the edges to make the perfect area rug. If you want an animal print in your bedroom, an area rug is a perfect way to add this pattern to a room without adding wall-to-wall carpet. When you tire of animal print, you can add a different area rug into the room and change the look entirely.

Ceramic and Porcelain Tile - Tile will always be an excellent choice for bathrooms, kitchens and rooms that get a lot of wear and tear. Flooring companies have developed modern technology that uses digital printing, similar to taking a picture and printing it on a tile, to add an even more realistic look to the tile. This new digital printing technology also allows flooring companies to create ceramic and porcelain tile that looks like wood or stone flooring. You can now have the look of wood flooring in a kitchen, without the worry of water ruining your wood floor. The colors are endless, so you can find a ceramic or porcelain to match any decorating scheme. And, ceramic and porcelain are not just for floors, but for walls, showers, tub surrounds, backsplashes and fireplaces.

Hardwood Floors - If you want drama and durability, nothing lasts like real-wood floors. Today’s hardwood floors are adding old-world elegance with a new twist and are certainly one of the hottest trends in floor covering. The hand-scraped look of worn wood flooring mixed with exceptionally durable finishes make hardwood flooring an excellent choice for family rooms, living rooms, dining rooms and bedrooms.

Flooring companies are always adding modern technologies to make their products more durable and easier to clean. However, they realize consumers also want products that are decorative and meet their needs for style. Digital printing allows flooring products to look more like real stone or wood but are less expensive and still look like the real thing. While there are still other choices in flooring, such as cork, bamboo and laminate, these are not as popular as they used to be due to increasing costs of production.

Shopping at a specialty flooring store is always worth your time as these companies have staff that are experts in flooring, and they also keep their prices competitive with the big box store. They generally have a much larger selection of flooring than the big box stores, as well. Flooring is one of the top three investments you will make in your home, so make sure you learn as much as you can about the products, then pick the one that fits your style and budget.

I had some inspiring and honest conversations with several of the breast cancer survivors featured in this month’s issue. Each woman’s journey to healing is so different and yet their goals are similar: to be here for family, to help others, to fight for the very life so many of us take for granted. They all spoke so eloquently and honestly about their cancer experience that I decided to ask them, “If breast cancer were a color, what color would it be for you today?” As I suspected, their answers reflected their personal journeys in very poignant ways. I hope you too will be inspired by their commitment to continue creating a life worth living and that we each will follow their lead to health and well-being, both mentally and physically.

- Ann Leach

RD: In June 2019, at the age of 39, I felt a suspicious lump. And, then, I felt another. I knew immediately in my heart it was cancer even though there was no family history. A week later, a mammogram and ultrasound confirmed it. It was nerve-wracking and overwhelming, but God gave me an overwhelming peace.

SMTO: What did you do to prepare for your journey?

RD: One of the best decisions I made early on was to create a Facebook group for my friends and family, a one-stop-shop where I could update everyone with news along the way.

“Cancer is that elusive beautiful blue/green swirling color of the ocean where you can tell something is under the surface, but you just can’t quite make out what it is. It’s enormous and you know it is, but you’re out there on your own and can’t do a thing about it but wait for it to surface. And when it does, it’s scary, overwhelming and uncertain. But then, it’s beautiful.”

I also decided early on to take one step in the journey at a time. I didn’t look to the future and fret about upcoming surgeries, other treatment plans or what-ifs.

SMTO: What coping tools have you used to come to terms with the diagnosis and treatment?

RD: Jesus. He was my coping tool throughout the entire process and continues to be my coping tool today.

SMTO: How do you manage your mindset?

RD: I chose to be a bright light in cancer. I refused to allow cancer to rob me of the value of my days. There’s no need to be dead while we are still living.

Writing my thoughts, feelings, anxieties and experiences was incredibly helpful for me.

Sharing my writing with others became this sense of community where so many were

cheering me on from the sidelines. How could I give up with all those eyes on me?

SMTO: What are you doing now to nurture your physical body and promote continued healing of it?

RD: After cancer, I started working out with my college-age niece. She pushed me to gain my muscle mass back that chemo took from me. And now, a few years later, I’m still working out three times every week with my 71-year-old dad who is working to regain his own strength from back surgery. We pay it forward in this family.

I also remain faithful to my 3-month oncology visits and bloodwork.

SMTO: How did you find your medical team?

RD: Since I had a 4-year-old at home when I was diagnosed, I wanted to stay in Joplin if possible.

My husband is a physician assistant in the area, so he immediately called a surgeon friend of his whom he admires immensely and asked him to conduct my double mastectomy. I chose an oncologist and was very happy with her. I’ve now been through three oncologists. My first one left the area, and then my insurance changed, so I had to change hospitals and oncologists. I’ve been very happy with all three.

My confidence in their abilities grew upon meeting each of them, asking questions, researching them professionally and asking other cancer patients their recommendations and opinions. Each of my oncologists have been supportive and kind, which really does make me feel that they are on my team.

SMTO: Anything else you would like to say?

RD: Whether it’s cancer that takes you out or something else, we all have an expiration date here on earth. When you’re diagnosed with cancer, you still have life to live, people to love and differences to make. You’re not dead yet. So don’t act like it. Even life with cancer can be so, so beautiful.

SMTO: How did you find out you had breast cancer and what was your first thought?

– Rachele' Davis

Photo by Mandy Edmonson

By Ann Leach

TH: I received a call from my doctor two days after my annual exam, and he said, ‘You have cancer.’ My first thoughts when I heard those words were about my children and of possibly not being able to watch them get married or see my grandkids.

SMTO: What did you do to prepare for your breast cancer journey?

TH: I never asked, ‘Why me?’ I accepted the journey I was given and was ready to fight. I believe everything happens for a reason and this was my journey to be able to educate others.

SMTO: What coping tools have you used to come to terms with the diagnosis and treatment?

TH: I trusted my doctors, and I leaned on the nurses and my nurse navigator to answer all my questions. I learned not to Google anything; it scared me when I started looking things up. Breast cancer is not a blanket diagnosis, everyone is unique to their own diagnosis, with all the subtitles. I also took many bubble baths to relax.

SMTO: What did you do/are you doing to manage your mindset?

TH: Everything happens for a reason, and I try to find the silver lining in everything. Like I knew I was going to lose my hair, so I picked out different wigs with hair styles I would be scared to try and had fun with it.

SMTO: What are you doing now to nurture your physical body?

TH: I do my monthly breast exams. I have started saying no to volunteering for so much and slowing my life down. I moved into a job that allows me to spend more time with my family.

SMTO: How comfortable are you now in having to ask for help with things? Or were you pretty good at it before?

TH: In the beginning, I did not ask for any help. I had sooo many people offer to help in so many different ways, like cooking, cleaning, etc. I learned it was ok to let people in and to let them help, as they

would not have offered if they did not want to. Once we started letting people in to help, it took so much stress away from my husband and me in trying to keep everything going.

SMTO: How did you find your medical team?

TH: I was added to a social media breast cancer support group, and I asked them who they used and why. I did some research and once I met my oncologist, I just knew he was the one. He made me feel comfortable and was patient in answering all my questions.

SMTO: Anything else you would like to say?

TH: I love being able to be there for others and help them through their journey. I remind them it is a marathon and not a sprint. You focus on the ‘now,’ then move to the next step. Trust your doctors and nurses and don’t hesitate to ask them anything. I used to keep a list of questions in my phone, so when I thought of one, I could just write it down so I did not forget. My final thing is not to Google anything! Instead, ask your nurses and doctor all your questions because each diagnosis is unique to that person.

SMTO: How did you find out you had breast cancer and what was your first thought?

“Breast cancer is red because it is so bold and stands out, and it’s in your face.”

– Tiffany Hayworth

Photo by Mandy Edmonson

By Ann Leach

Offering a different side of the breast cancer journey is Alicia Hughes. With a family history of cancer (her mother, sister and others on her mother’s side of the family), she knew her breast cancer risk was high. Upon consulting her doctor, her doctor suggested she have a genetic test done. That test came back negative, but the family history lingered in her mind and her doctor urged her to consult with a surgeon and a plastic surgeon regarding the possibility of a mastectomy on her terms, when she was ready.

In February 2021, Alicia had a bilateral mastectomy and reconstruction.

SMTO: What did you do to mentally prepare for the surgery?

AH: I talked to my mom and my sisters about what to expect. Michele Wood was a cancer survivor, and we worked together and that helped. I dealt with other people’s misconceptions, like I was doing this for cosmetic reasons. It was about assuring my life, not about cosmetics, believe me! My husband was extremely supportive and said, “I want you here for many more years.”

I learned a lot of trust and faith when my son was hit by a baseball at eight that resulted in a traumatic brain injury. I learned then that my God is good.

SMTO: How do you manage your mindset today?

AH: I like to keep my hair done and do things that help me feel feminine and do my eyelashes. Giving other women hope and letting them know that if you have a significant risk in your family, at least talk to your doctor.

SMTO: How did you find your medical team?

SMTO: What coping tools did you use to come to terms with the decision?

AH: I prayed a lot. You really canʼt prepare for it. There is so much to it from body image issues and the times that I just don’t feel like a woman and that didn’t come to light until after the surgery and healing period. The decision was easy, though, because I knew I didn’t want to have mammograms every six months because it was like waiting for another chip to fall. I wanted to make the choice before the choice was made for me. Truthfully, I may never have been diagnosed with breast cancer, but it wasn’t a risk or a chance I was willing to take for my or my family’s sake.

AH: I hesitated because my risk factor doesn’t go up to when I’m 45, and they were saying, “We can’t tell you what time it will happen” I figured if my insurance would pay for it then that was my ‘go’ sign. They did and I got my test result in November, and I had surgery in February. I knew the longer I thought about it, the more I would talk myself out of it.

SMTO: Anything else you’d like to say?

AH: I want every woman to go to their doctors, and if you can prevent it, do it. And if it is in your family, get a genetic test. The moral of the story is don’t play with fire.

“Cancer is gray because it wasn’t black and bleak, but it wasn’t a bed of roses either. The back side of it is gold because now I see and think any woman going through this is a freaking warrior.”

– Alicia Hughes

Photo by Mandy Edmonson

By Ann Leach

RMF: I had my annual mammogram and was called back for a second test. I wasn’t worried about it because this had happened before. When the third appointment came, I figured something was different. I thought, ‘I can do this.’

SPM: After my mom had her surgery, I did a selfexam and felt a lump that didn’t feel right. I called the doctor’s office crying and telling them I found a lump, and my mom had just had a double mastectomy and that I was scared. They got me in that week, a week before my 40th birthday.

&RMF: Prayer.

SPM: Just acceptance. I had just seen my mom go through the surgery, and I was like, ‘Ok, it’s my journey also now. Let’s go.’

SMTO: What did you do/are you doing to manage your mindset on the journey?

RMF: I keep moving and trying to keep up part of my schedule as before. I thank God I am retired, and I have the ability to stop and rest whenever I need to.

SPM: I am accepting all my feelings. I listen to my body and accept that at this point I might not be able to do everything I had been able to do a few months ago.

SMTO: What did you do to prepare for your breast cancer journey?

RMF: I remember walking into the food pantry where I volunteer, and I told the others. They were encouraging, and I told them, ‘I’ve got this.’ The Lord is with me, and I am in His hands one way or the other.

SPM: From just going through this with my mom, I was somewhat already prepared, so it just felt like a repeat of what I had just seen.

SMTO: What coping tools have you used to come to terms with the diagnosis and treatment?

SMTO: What are you doing now to nurture your physical body?

RMF: I take my dog out, and we walk around the block. I eat along with resting a lot. The house is not spotless, but that’s okay.

SPM: A lot more resting.

SMTO: How did you find your medical team?

RMF: I did seek a second opinion in terms of having surgery. My time was spent on the internet reading reviews of doctors. At the various appointments, one of my daughters would go with me and then we would discuss whether we were comfortable with that doctor or not.

SPM: My cousin, Julie, got me in with my doctor in Pittsburg. Julie spoke to him about me and my diagnosis, and he told her to get me to his office the next day, which she did.

SMTO: Anything else you would like to say?

RMF: When I look at the medical bills, I wonder how people handle the cost and understand people having to declare bankruptcy because of those costs. I am over 65, so Medicare is covering the cost. But what can be done to help those in financial need?

SPM: At 40 years old, I never thought I would be fighting with my mom like this, but here we are, living the warrior’s life.

SMTO: How did you find out you had breast cancer and what was your first thought?

“Cancer is not so much a color as it is a print, and that would be camouflage because you don’t see it coming.”

– Shannon Parsons-McDaniel

“Cancer is orange because it reminds me of fall and time spent with family, friends and community. We are able to be out and about and filling our lives with laughter, conversation and good times.”

– Rose Mary Ferguson

Photo by Likeable Likeness Photography

By Ann Leach

PB: I was scheduled for my routine mammogram and asked a friend to go with me like the buddy check system. She was fine, but I had breast cancer. I was shocked because I did regular mammograms and thought it could never happen to me.

SMTO: What did you do to prepare for the journey?

PB: I did a lot of praying. I had a dear friend who was very supportive to me, she went with my husband and me to my doctor appointments and she even took a notebook with her to take notes.

SMTO: What coping tools have you used to come to terms with the diagnosis and treatment?

PB: I am very blessed that I had a very supportive husband (who has since passed away after his own cancer experience) and family and friends who were on this journey with me. My church family and my other family and friends walked right beside me. My faith in the Lord is the reason I never felt alone.

SMTO: What did you do to manage your mindset?

PB: Like I have said several times, I prayed a lot. I also didn’t do the

‘why me.’ Why not me, I am no better than any other woman out there. My friend Patsy would tell me I was only allowed 10 minutes a day to feel sorry for myself, after that get on with the journey, one step, one day at a time.

SMTO: What are you doing to nurture your physical body?

PB: I continue, even after 13 years cancer-free, to always have my scheduled mammogram and still see my oncologist regularly. I allow myself to feel every emotion possible. When I was first told I had breast cancer, I thought ‘Well, it is just this tiny place in my breast,’ but after two lumpectomies, I then had to have a modified radical mastectomy. That took my breath away for a while. I cried a lot, then my very practical husband said, ‘Let that breast go and let’s get on with life.’

SMTO: How comfortable are you now in asking for help?

PB: My greatest trial was that my husband had been diagnosed with cancer two years before me, so cancer had hit our family hard. My greatest gift was my grandson Ryan, who told me he loved me with or without hair on my head. Our son Chad was with us every step of the way. The love of my three guys meant everything to me during that time.

SMTO: How did you find your medical team?

PB: I was very lucky about choosing a doctor. My husband, Paul, was established with him already, so I had a relationship with him, too. I have the utmost respect for my doctor and his staff. The chemo nurses were nothing but top notch.

SMTO: Anything else you would like to say?

PB: I guess my final comments are that there is a reason why I am still here. I think the Lord is just not done with me yet. I am blessed to still be here and that the loss of a breast does not define who I am.

SMTO: How did you find out you had breast cancer and what was your first thought?

“Cancer will always be a black color for me. I lost my very best friend, my husband to cancer, so that disease hits very close to home for me.”

– Patti Burrington

Photo by Mandy Edmonson

By Ann Leach

MS: I did a self-exam in May of this year and discovered a lump almost an inch wide. I saw my gynecologist, who ordered a mammogram, my first ever since I was only 31. My mammogram, delayed by long wait times and then my own Covid diagnosis, took place July 5. They did an ultrasound and biopsy the same day. On July 11, I was diagnosed with Stage 2 Invasive Ductile Carcinoma.

My first thought was, "I won't let my little boy grow up without his mom."

SMTO: What did you do to prepare for your journey?

MS: When I'm faced with big decisions, I gather data, and one of my favorite mantras is ‘facts are friends.’ I gathered as many facts as I could from my medical team, and I reached out to women I knew who'd gone through breast cancer.

SMTO: What coping tools have you used to come to terms with the diagnosis and treatment?

MS: I've focused on consuming and creating via my favorite creative outlets: writing, photography and film. Last year, I did a creative horror photography

project called "The Final Girls" because I'd recently come to the realization that when I create and share with others, I have hope.

What did you do/are you doing to manage your mindset?

I try to put anchors in my schedule that serve as something to look forward to. Taking a moment to be present with my toddler when he squeals with delight can be the best medicine. After all, we are only guaranteed to have our present moment, whether we have cancer or not.

What are you doing now to nurture your physical

MS: Two things: Listening to my body and making time for pleasure in the midst of pain. I exercise and move my body to reduce stress and move through emotions. And I listen to my own gut and heart because they guide me through so many situations. I love that you use the word ‘nurture’ because in a culture that profits and benefits from women's constant dissatisfaction with/ disconnection from their bodies, to nurture your own body can be revolutionary. That brings me to my second point: making time for pleasure amidst pain. I laughed when I read a breast cancer brochure that said, "A great way to relieve stress is to go for long walks," because I had surgery on my Achilles a week before my diagnosis and haven't been able to walk all summer. In mid-July, a week after my cancer diagnosis, I remember the shower I took (seated on the floor) after they cut the cast off

my leg. I took a washcloth to the base of my foot and couldn't believe how amazing it felt. I gave myself permission to feel that tiny bit of pleasure when my leg had only felt pain and discomfort for so long. It's always possible to find light when everything feels dark, and sometimes the simplest things can remind you the pain won't last forever.

SMTO: How comfortable are you now in asking for help?

MS: I was so bad at accepting help before I got cancer, but we aren't meant to go through things like this on our own. Accepting help is really just accepting love.

SMTO: How did you find your medical team?

MS: When a tumor is involved, you've got the time sensitivity factor to worry about. They ask you ‘lumpectomy or mastectomy’ like it's ‘steak or chicken?’ They tell you that you have this many odds of things going this way, or this many odds of it going another way. For me, it came down to seeking out help from many trusted voices and then assimilating the data so I felt as empowered as I could in the decision-making process.

SMTO: What else would you like to say?

MS: If you have breasts, check them.

SMTO: How did you find out you had breast cancer and what was your first thought?

“Cancer is green, like the vines that grow on my fence.”

– Mitzi Starkweather

Photo by Mitzi Starkweather

By Ann Leach

BN: I found my lump during a self-breast exam. I was 36 years old at the time, so I quickly dismissed it as a cyst. However, something kept gnawing at me that it may be more and I should get it checked out. I had my biopsy done on my husband’s 40th birthday and two days later, we were told I had aggressive breast cancer.

It felt like the world stopped moving. I had told myself that I would wallow for that day but the next day I would start to pick up the pieces; the next day I would start fighting back.

SMTO: What did you do to prepare for the journey?

BN: First, we turned to our church family and our friends for support. There was great assurance in knowing we were not alone.

Secondly, I wanted to find someone who shared the same story I did. I found a local support group on Facebook and requested to join. Rachele’, who is featured in this issue, too, saw my name and recognized it from work. Within a week, we were sitting in her living room listening to her story and her encouragement.

SMTO: What did you do/are you doing to manage your mindset?

BN: Communication has been so important for me. It helps me to identify and label lies I am believing. The best way for me to move forward when I am feeling stuck is to not be afraid to open up to others and be real about where I am.

What they don’t tell you about cancer is the end of treatment is just the beginning. You have to learn to live again and embrace your new normal. It’s acknowledging that it’s okay to have days where I don’t feel okay as long as I don’t allow myself to stay there.

SMTO: What are you doing now to nurture your physical body?

BN: I’ve been a pretty active person, so it has been important to me to never let my circumstances give me an excuse. It has always been important for me to not let cancer take anything more from me than it already has.

SMTO: How comfortable are you with asking for help?

SMTO: What coping tools have you used to come to terms with the diagnosis and treatment?

BN: During treatment, I just focused on tackling small bits at a time. I’m a very goal-oriented person, so getting to cross one appointment off really helped me to know it wouldn’t last forever.

I feel like coping with the diagnosis has been far more difficult. The one that comes to mind most often is that suffering in our life is never meaningless. I believe a great deal of that purpose in my life looks like being able to encourage others with hope.

BN: I am kind of the worst at asking for help. I don’t think cancer really changed that, either. But, I will say I’ve learned that asking for help is rarely the burden we imagine it is going to be on others.

SMTO: How did you find the right medical team?

BN: I honestly didn’t think about this very much. First of all, we were always content at Freeman. My cancer was pretty standard, and we didn’t want to waste valuable time seeking out other treatment options. We decided to trust the process and went with the recommendations that were given to us.

SMTO: How did you find out you had breast cancer and what was your first thought?

“Cancer is white. When I think of white, I think of a blank space. And that’s how life after cancer has felt for me. It’s beyond a new chapter, it’s a new book entirely.”

– Beth Newman

Photo by Mandy Edmonson

By Allison Lee Riechman-Bennett

When Kristi Seibert and Kathryn Wall of Breast Cancer Foundation of the Ozarks received three phone calls from young women looking for tumor diagnosis, red flags began flying up. Kristi and Kathryn are a part of vital cancer diagnosis programs for our region, involving their U35 Program, their new office in Joplin, and regularly held free screening mammogram events in Joplin held at both Mercy and Freeman Hospital. These three phone calls prompted an additional program on top of their 20 plus years of services in the Show-Me State.

“We had nowhere to point them, “Wall continued. “There is a great state program called Show Me Healthy Women that covers the costs of diagnostic mammograms, ultrasounds and biopsies, but only for women 35 and over. Those calls were three women experiencing symptoms of breast cancer that needed to know how to get diagnosed, and the only barrier was their ability to pay and an unnecessary age restriction. This coincided with a recognition that we were seeing more and more patients under 35 being diagnosed with breast cancer.”

“These three women were too young to qualify for assistance programs that would help them pay for the costs of the expensive tests that are necessary to determine whether a person has breast cancer or not,” said Wall.

Faced with the denial of treatment due to a cost barrier, Wall tried to steer them in the right direction. Due to lack of funding in local hospitals and awareness, no program was available for women under the age of 35.

With rising cases in women under the age of 35, regular mammogram screening was becoming necessary, something local clinics couldn’t keep up with nor provide for those unable to pay for regular visits. This is where U35, a program aimed at tackling the gap in health care and to people under the age of 35, came in. BCFO recognizes the universal misunderstanding that breast cancer doesn’t happen in younger women and men. Wall expanded on starting the program as well as their progress this year:

“So, we told our board we wanted to do something, and then we told donors, and then we told the public, and every step of the way people were energized and supportive. In April, we were able to launch our pilot program with Springfield hospitals Mercy and CoxHealth and have already helped 14 people this year.”

Left to Right: Jeffrey Brown, Derrick Sutherlin, Kristi Seibert, Daniel Burton and Bret Miller

“When it comes to breast cancer, the earlier we can catch it, the better chances our patients have of treating and beating it. Annual screening mammograms are so important because that test is going to catch something out of the ordinary before we would likely even feel anything.”

– Kathryn Wall

Survivor Marilyn Bouldin and Kristi Seibert

“Early detection is key.”

– Kristi Seibert

U35 Program

• Financial liberty in receiving vital diagnosis care for breast cancer

• For men and women

• Serviced to those under the age of 35

New Joplin Offices

• Located at 3016 McClelland Blvd on the third floor of Guaranty Bank

• Phone 417.434.2200

“Breast cancer is about 100 times less common among white men than among white women. It is about 70 times less common among Black men than Black women. Black men with breast cancer tend to have a worse prognosis.”

The American Cancer Society 2022 estimates for breast cancer in men in the United States are:

• About 2,710 new cases of invasive breast cancer will be diagnosed

• About 530 men will die from breast cancer

Their care also extends to men, who face a starkly different type of risk from breast cancer. The lack of resources for men regarding breast cancer allows for a later diagnosis and care, resulting in a much more deadly disease and fewer options for care. Women and men in the area can contact BCFO for their services at their new Joplin office at 3016 McClelland Boulevard on the third floor of Guaranty Bank.

Joplin Outlaws Go Pink in the Park The Outlaws’ annual Pink in the Park game this year was played in memory of Brandy Jackson. The baseball team auctioned off pink jerseys, and all proceeds were donated to hope4you. The fundraiser continues to grow bigger every year, and we are so thankful to Mark and Edwina Rains and the Outlaws for their support.

Bill and Marilyn Bouldin

Lori McGilvray, Sharon Clark and Chris McGilvray 3. David Green, Braxton Matthews, Carson Ballard and Riot Benjamin

Show Me Group

Sharon Clark throwing the first pitch

Mandy and Emma Edmonson Nancy Simon, Pat Lipira, Kim Sanders, Michelle Wood, Shannon Ingle, Sharon Clark, Brenlee Buerge

Larry Warren and Edwina Rains

Shannon Ingle, Nancy Simon, Darrell Waggoner, Sharon Clark, Kevin Rhinehart, Michelle Wood, Kim Sanders and Pat Lipira

Charla Combs, Michenna Matthews, Emily Matthews, Andrea Combs and Cecilia Ballard

Sharon Clark and Zoe Poor Left: Elli Dodson, Will Thompson, Lindi Schmelzer and David Green

Photos by Mandy Edmonson

We teach, we heal, we

Justin Reed, DO • Vigyan Bang, MD • Shelby Tinney-Edge, MS, DO

Rollin Cross Trewyn, Pharm-D • Toby Moore, DO • Byungsoo Ko, MD

Amanda Andrade, DO • Aaron Weber, DO • Brian A. Reavley, DDS

Lacie Hale, OD • Allan P. Weston, MD, FACG

REED, DO

“I particularly like the constant challenge this field of medicine brings. It can be detective work at times, diagnosing and managing very complex diseases that typically have unusual presentations.”

Various rheumatic diseases can be quite anxiety-inducing for patients and unfortunately can have a profoundly negative impact on a person’s quality of life. It’s Dr. Reed’s job to return some form of normalcy to a person’s dayto-day functioning. “I particularly like the constant challenge this field of medicine brings,” he said. “It can be detective work at times, diagnosing and managing very complex diseases that typically have unusual presentations.”

When Dr. Reed’s grandmother suffered from an autoimmune disease, he and his family understood how devastating it can be to a person and their loved ones. He was inherently drawn to the rheumatology field and wanted to learn how he could help others. “During my grandmother’s era, much less was known about these diseases and how to exactly manage them,” said Dr. Reed. “Our understanding of the molecular pathophysiology of many of these diseases is now becoming more crystalized and has given rise to the development of novel targeted therapeutics, which has changed this paradigm, making it an exciting time to be in the field of rheumatology.”

Communication is key for Dr. Reed. His goal is to provide health and wellbeing for his patients, and this is achieved through his patient-provider relationship. Dr. Reed ensures his patients feel understood, informed and always remains active in the decision-making process involving their care. In his free time, Dr. Reed enjoys time with his family and hunting, fishing and watching football.

Dr. Justin Reed is an adult rheumatologist, assisting in the diagnosis and medical treatment of autoimmune and auto-inflammatory rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases.

Interventional and Structural Cardiologist

Freeman Heart & Vascular Institute

1102 W. 32nd Street • Joplin, MO 417.347.5000 • freemanhealth.com

Dr. Vigyan Bang is fighting the good fight against heart disease with his patients. As an interventional cardiologist, Dr. Bang specializes in treating heart attacks and blockages as well as treating heart valve disease. His typical day involves seeing patients in the office or hospital to determine with them the best way to heal –be it a heart procedure, medications or watchful waiting.

Dr. Bang’s biggest inspiration is his parents, both doctors. He has watched them touch countless lives, and that is what motivated him to go into healthcare. “I enjoy the adrenaline rush and fast pace in the cardiology,” said Dr. Bang. “It is one of few branches in medicine where you can instantaneously improve patients’ symptoms.”

Almost everything in cardiology is guided by constantly evolving data, enabling Dr. Bang to answer his patients’ questions in a well-informed manner.

It is the ability to make his patients suffering from a heart attack feel better instantaneously after fixing their heart blockage that is the most rewarding part of this job. “I specialize in the new and emerging field of structural heart disease, which offers leading-edge treatment options for patients with heart-valve disease, using minimally invasive catheter-based technology,” said Dr. Bang. “It is most rewarding to see my patients back in the office feeling better and doing the things they couldn’t previously do. I love hearing these stories!”

Outside of work, Dr. Bang enjoys spending time with his wife and friends. They like the outdoors, enjoy traveling, hiking and mountain biking. Dr. Bang is a car fanatic, and if he weren’t a cardiologist, he would be an automobile engineer.

“It is most rewarding to see my patients back in office feeling better and doing the things they couldn’t previously do. I love hearing these stories!”

VIGYAN BANG, MD

Dr. Shelby Tinney-Edge is a primary care physician. She is a strong believer in primary preventive care and likes to address patients’ issues early in the disease course to help prevent them from becoming seriously ill.

Dr. Tinney-Edge knew she wanted to be in healthcare since childhood. “My mom is a nurse practitioner and my dad is the administrator for Newton County Ambulance District,” said Dr. Tinney-Edge. “I’ve grown up watching their hard work and dedication for their patients, and that helped me form my passion.” Along her journey to becoming a physician, Dr. Tinney-Edge had many opportunities to see how healthcare worked. “I saw firsthand how medicine can improve the quality of someone’s life when I watched my grandmother through her battle with cancer,” she said.

What Dr. Tinney-Edge loves most about her job is developing relationships with her patients and their families. “It’s a good feeling when my patients can put their trust in me as their primary care physician,” she said.

A native of the Southwest Missouri area, Dr. Tinney-Edge considers Freeman home. She looks forward to getting back to helping the community she’s always called home.

Outside of work, Dr. Tinney-Edge enjoys spending time with her husband, Dr. Jacob Edge, and their 10-month-old son.

ROLLIN CROSS TREWYN

Pharmacist-in-Charge, Pharm-D QuickMeds Pharmacy

1102 W. 32nd Street • Joplin, MO 417.347.3792 • freemanhealth.com

As a pharmacist at QuickMeds in Joplin, Rollin Trewyn’s day is spent in a very familiar way as most retail pharmacists. He verifies prescriptions for accuracy, patient safety and overall appropriateness. As pharmacist-in-charge, Rollin ensures all pharmacy activities are in keeping with state and federal law, as well. Where his specific job begins to differ from other community pharmacists is the multitude of other activities QuickMeds engages in.

“We have a robust Meds-to-Beds program where medications are taken to a patient’s bedside at Freeman West prior to discharge,” said Rollin. “This service helps ensure a patient has immediate access to new medications following a hospital visit and that these medications will be feasibly affordable for the patient going forward.”

QuickMeds handles many specialty medications that can otherwise be difficult for a patient to obtain. They also keep a close focus on the employees and the families of Freeman Health System. “In a nutshell, we strive to make QuickMeds a pharmacy the employees of Freeman view as a benefit to their employment,” he said.

Rollin started his first job in a pharmacy when he was 16 years old. “I was blessed to work for an amazing pharmacist who taught me how valuable a good pharmacist can be to patients, providers and the community,” said Rollin. “The strong personal relationships Joe developed with his patients developed a unique patient-provider relationship.” The most rewarding part about Rollin’s job is finding the opportunity to have a positive impact on his patients’ health.

In his free time, Rollin enjoys spending time with his wife and three daughters and is thankful for a career that affords him time to spend with his family.

“I was blessed to work for an amazing pharmacist who taught me how valuable a good pharmacist can be to patients, providers and the community.”

TOBY MOORE, DO

Orthopedic Surgeon Mercy Clinic Orthopedics

444 Four States Dr., Ste. 1A • Galena, KS 877.783.4441 • mercy.net

As a kid, Dr. Toby Moore was fascinated with the musculoskeletal system, so it’s no surprise he went into the medical field and is an orthopedic surgeon. Dr. Moore treats patients across the Four-State Area and focuses on eliminating the discomfort caused by injuries and disorders of the bones, spine and joints.

Working alongside his patients, Dr. Moore develops treatment plans to ensure the best approach possible. “It is my goal to make meaningful connections with patients and help them return to a better life,” he said.

Dr. Moore knows he is making meaningful contributions to the lives of other people, and that’s what keeps him going day after day.

With a specialty in spine surgery, Dr. Moore knows how debilitating back pain can be and works hard alongside the most innovative team of spine surgeons who use leading-edge, minimally invasive treatment to get patients back to living a better quality of life.

In his free time, Dr. Moore enjoys reading, exercising and anything outdoors. He also enjoys spending time with his two daughters.

“It is my goal to make meaningful connections with patients and help them return to a better life.”

Dr.

Byungsoo Ko’s mission is to provide excellent care of our hearts. As an interventional and structural cardiologist, Dr. Ko sub-specializes in doing cardiac procedures. This includes treating blockages in the arteries or veins in the body, closing holes in the heart and replacing heart valves through a minimally invasive procedure called a TAVR (also known as transcatheter aortic valve replacement) instead of traditional open-heart surgery.

For Dr. Ko, it wasn’t until college that he decided to go to medical school. “I applied for both medical school and law school but ultimately chose the medical field,” he said. “I originally wanted to go into cardiovascular surgery, but my mentor at the time, who was a CV surgeon, recommended that I look at cardiology instead. He believed that minimally invasive procedures were the future, and he was right.”

Now, Dr. Ko enjoys being able to help people who previously would have required surgery with a minimally invasive procedure where they can have a much faster and easier recovery. “Many of the procedures I do offer patients instant improvement in their symptoms and can even be life-saving while only requiring a one-night stay in the hospital and almost no recovery time,” said Dr. Ko. “It is very rewarding to see patients back in my office telling me how much better they feel.”

Dr. Ko makes it a priority to ensure his patients are well-informed of their illness and options when it comes to treatment, answering all questions to their satisfaction. “I want to be sure my patients are comfortable with whatever decision they make with their care team,” he said.

Outside of work, Dr. Ko spends time with his wife and son. They enjoy playing tennis and video games.

KO,

“It is very rewarding to see patients back in my office telling me how much better they feel.”

AMANDA ANDRADE, DO

Medicine Physician Mercy Clinic Primary Care

202 East 50th St. • Joplin, MO 417.556.3400 • mercy.net

Dr. Amanda Andrade tries to take a holistic approach when it comes to the care of her patients. As a family medicine physician, Dr. Andrade strives to give the best care to patients of all ages.

Dr. Andrade knew going into college she wanted to be a physician.

“I thought my love for children would lead me to pediatric medicine; however, after my first obstetrician-gynecologist rotation in residency, I realized how much I also enjoyed women’s health,” said Dr. Andrade. Family medicine was a way for her to do both. “There is something so satisfying to get to know and care for the whole family,” she said.

The most rewarding part of Dr. Andrade’s work is seeing patients succeed in moving toward health. Because Dr. Andrade’s approach to healthcare is holistic, she approaches the physical, spiritual and social aspects of a person as they relate to health and disease.

Dr. Andrade enjoys building relationships with individuals. “I like getting to be their advocate in a sense,” she said. “If they need a specialist in our community, I help make the connection.”

Outside of work, Dr. Andrade spends time with her husband and two little girls.

“There is something so satisfying to get to know and care for the whole family.”

AARON WEBER, DO

Orthopedic Surgeon Mercy Clinic Orthopedics

444 Four States Dr., Ste. 1A • Galena, KS 877.783.4441 • mercy.net

Dr. Aaron Weber is an orthopedic surgeon

specializing in injuries and elements of the hand, wrist and elbow. He sees patients throughout the region doing what he can to help them feel better and get back to their normal lifestyles after an injury.

Not having any interest in health care whatsoever, Dr. Weber’s initial career was in IT and business consulting until he was in a car accident injuring his hand and face. Injuring his hand and face, Dr. Weber required extensive surgery. “Dr. Duane Sherrod repaired lacerations of my face as well as to the digital nerve of my left hand,” said Dr. Weber. “That initially piqued my interest in hand surgery, which was cultivated by my longtime friend, Dr. Mark McNemar.” Afterward, Dr. Weber felt the desire to give back to others and made the decision to change careers and begin the arduous educational path toward hand surgery.

The most rewarding part of Dr. Weber’s job is when patients under his care leave his office, hopefully to never return again because their injuries have healed, their pain resolved or they have regained the function of their hand or wrist. “My favorite thing to tell patients is, ‘I hope I never see you again … unless it’s at Target or Walmart!’” said Dr. Weber.

Dr. Weber is surrounded by a great team to ensure an enhanced patient experience. “The teamwork and camaraderie that is present in the clinic and in the operating room is very important to our patient care,” he said.

When he has free time, Dr. Weber enjoys spending it with his family. He is married with two children and is very involved with school activities, church and enjoys the outdoors.

“My favorite thing to tell patients is, ‘I hope I never see you again … unless it’s at Target or Walmart!’”

The Reavley Family has been providing dental services in Lamar since 1934. Reavley Dental, located in downtown Lamar, has seven employees, including Dr. Brian, three dental hygienists, two dental assistants and one office manager.

Reavley Dental started off 2022 by upgrading its patient chairs for a more comfortable and relaxing experience. The operatories offer heated neck pillows and a TV on the ceiling for patient viewing. Dr. Reavley and his team are committed to keeping their patients safe and invite you to contact their office today to discuss your dental treatment options.

Reavley Dental has introduced different services in the past such as PRO White GLO that utilizes paint-on technique for whitening teeth and also uses a mouthpiece that lights up for several timed sessions, which eliminates the need for whitening trays. “We also offer digital scanning from 3SHAPE that can take impressions by simply scanning the upper and lower arches with a wand, which takes digital pictures,” said Dr. Reavley. “This technology eliminates the need for impression material of crowns, bridges, orthodontics and other procedures.” They then email the scans to the lab and the lab prints a 3D model and fabricates the crown, bridge or partial/denture from this 3D impression. The accuracy is amazing with this technology.

Reavley Dental also offers an in-house benefit plan, which can be used in their office. This benefit plan requires a monthly premium and provides a reduction in fees for various procedures. One of the best qualities at Reavley Dental is the team of dental professionals who work together to make your experience in their office one that is professional, pleasant and informative.

Reavley Dental also gives back to the community by providing athletic mouth guards to the Lamar High School football team each year, which are the seven-time consecutive state champions. Go, Tigers!

Dr. Lacie Hale is the owner and sole optometrist at Hale Vision in Joplin. The clinic opened last month and sees patients of all ages. Dr. Hale and her team perform routine eye exams, fit contact lenses and monitor for ocular diseases such as glaucoma and macular degeneration.

It wasn’t until her second year of undergraduate school before Dr. Hale decided on healthcare as a profession. “I wanted to pursue a career that would allow me to help others,” she said. “After deciding on healthcare, I shadowed numerous specialists before deciding on optometry. Optometry drew me in because I was interested in how the eyes work. The more I learned about the visual system, the more interested I became.”

Dr. Hale enjoys getting to know her patients and listening to their stories. “Every patient I encounter has a unique story I get to learn over the years of taking care of their vision,” she said. Dr. Hale takes time to listen to her patients, ensuring they are understood and that she provides the best available treatment.

The profession of optometry is constantly changing, and Dr. Hale makes it her mission to stay atop the advancements in scope of practice as well as advancements in technology and treatments available to diagnose and treat her patients.

In her free time, Dr. Hale spends time with her husband and daughter. They enjoy going to car shows and races, and spending time outdoors with their dogs.

“Every patient I encounter has a unique story I get to learn over the years of taking care of their vision.”

ALLAN P. WESTON, MD, FACG

Gastroenterologist

Digestive Health Center of the Four States 198 Four States Drive, Suite 6 • Galena, KS 620.783.1650 • www.dhc4states.com

Dr. Allan Weston is a gastroenterologist who sees patients in clinic or endoscopy lab daily and oversees the motility and breath testing lab. He also practices hepatology, which encompasses the study of the liver, pancreas and biliary tree.

While Dr. Weston decided to go into the healthcare field as a senior in high school, it wasn’t until well into earning his internal medicine degree that he decided to enter into gastroenterology/hepatology. “I have had several mentors in the past who greatly influenced me and have given me the proper tools and a clear understanding of the complexity of how the GI tract works,” said Dr. Weston. “This made choosing the GI field for my occupation a very easy one.”

Improving patient health is Dr. Weston’s ultimate goal. “I want to figure out what my patients’ problems are, then improving their health, preventing cancer and, in some cases, finding hidden cancer that has been over looked,” said Dr. Weston. “I want my patients to continue enjoying their lives with their loved ones.”

In his free time, Dr. Weston enjoys spending time with his wife, gardening and landscaping and completing projects around the house.

“I want my patients to continue enjoying their lives with their loved ones.”

Galena, KS

October 4: Weight Loss Surgery Seminar meets the first Tuesday of each month, 6 pm, Premier Surgical Institute,1619 W. 7th St. (Just minutes from Joplin, past the Missouri state line.) 620.783.1732

Dr. Kido, one of our fellowship-trained surgeons specializing in minimally invasive and bariatric surgery, and his nurse and success story Kelly, are providing free weight loss seminars in the Grand Lounge of Premier Surgical Institute. The seminars are designed to welcome and inform members of the Four State Area interested in learning about – or already considering – surgery as an option for weight loss treatment. Dr. Kido has an impressive record of patient weight loss results. He offers a caring approach to improve patients’ overall health and help to those suffering from the physical, emotional, medical, and financial consequences of being overweight. Dr. Kido provides solutions that will break the cycle for the many who are frustrated with unsuccessful efforts to lose weight or maintain weight loss.

Premier’s luxurious and peaceful hospital grounds promote wellness and offer the perfect setting for you to relax while we provide important information about our weight loss surgery options.

No reservations necessary to attend. The seminars are free and open to the public. Light refreshments provided.

Parsons, KS

October 11: Breast Cancer Support Group, 3:30 pm, Cancer Center conference room. Meets second Tuesday of each month. Call 620.235.7516.

October13: Grief Companions Support Group meets second Thursday of each month, 6 pm, Elm Haven West. Call 620.704.1110.

Via Christi Hospital - Pittsburg, KS

October 26: Cancer Support Group, 3 pm, Cancer Center conference room. Meets fourth Wednesday of each month. Call 620.235.7900.

Joplin, MO

Through October: Pink Ribbon Bagels. During the entire month of October, Panera will donate 25 cents for every Pink Ribbon Bagel sold to the HOPE4YOU Breast Cancer Foundation. October 14 is 100% day! For every Pink Ribbon Bagel sold, Panera will donate 100% of the proceeds to HOPE4YOU. Call Panera at 417.626.2300 to place your order. All money raised stays local to provide mammograms for those in need.

Every day: Alcoholics Anonymous Meetings. Call 888.740.4568.

Every Monday: Tips for Living a Healthy Life, 10 am-12 pm, South YMCA, 3404 W. McIntosh Circle. Free; registration required. Call 417.625.2492.

Every day: 12-Step Recovery Meetings, Alano Club, 1800 E. 30th. Call 417.623.9645.

Every Friday: Grief Counseling, 11 am-3 pm, St. Philip’s Episcopal Church, 706 S. Byers. Free. No appointment necessary.

October 11: Brain Injury Support Group meets every second Tuesday, 12-1:30 pm, The Independent Living Center, 2639 E. 34th. Contact 417.659.8086 for information and referral.

October 22: RACE4HOPE, 6:30 am registration, Spiva Park. Join us for our 13th annual 5K/1mile walk. Register today at http:// www.hope4youbcf.org. All money raised stays local to provide mammograms for those in need.

October 26: Grief Support Group meets every fourth Wednesday of each month, 6-7:30 pm, Hospice Compassus, 2216 E. 32nd St., Ste. 201. Call 417.623.8272.

Freeman Health System

Joplin, MO

October 1: Muffins and Mammograms, 7:30 am-12 pm, Wes & Jan Houser Women’s Pavilion, 1532 W. 32nd Street. Get your mammogram. Enjoy a muffin. Call 417.347.7777 for more information and to schedule your mammogram.

October 4: Expresso Yourself Breast Cancer Support Group, 5-6 pm, Joplin Avenue Coffee Company, 506 S. Joplin Ave. Enjoy a coffee courtesy of Freeman Cornell-Beshore Cancer Institute. Our monthly breast cancer support group enables members to share, gain helpful information and useful tips, and form new friendships. Enjoy listening to a special guest from time to time. RSVP to Marcella at 417.347.2662.

October 5: Freeman Real Living with Diabetes, 12-12:45 pm, Freeman Women’s Center Conference Rooms, 1532 W. 32nd St. A meeting for anyone struggling with diabetes to discuss real issues and concerns. Call 417.347.5700 for more information.

October 6: Freeman Early Detection Screenings, by appointment, Freeman Screen Team Resource Center, 1130 E. 32nd St., Ste. C. Early detection screenings include abdominal aortic aneurysm, peripheral arterial disease and stroke/carotid artery screenings, as well as osteoporosis risk assessment. Fees vary. Call 417.347.6555 for an appointment.

October 12: Freeman Cancer Support Group, 2-3 pm, Freeman Cornell-Beshore Cancer Institute, 3415 McIntosh Circle. Call Lisa Paugh or Kelley Wheeler for questions at 417.347.4000.

October 18: Freeman Bariatric Weight-Loss Support Group, 5:306:30 pm, Freeman Business Center Conference Rooms, 3220 McClelland Blvd (back entrance). Designed to help those who have had bariatric surgery. For more information, call 417.347.1266.

October 20: Freeman Caregiver Support Group, 10:30 am-12 pm, Freeman Business Center Conference Rooms, 3220 McClelland Blvd (back entrance). Are you a caregiver interested in having a safe haven to share your feelings? Receive information about resources and coping mechanisms, gain advice on what lies ahead, make new friends and learn how to deal with family members. Door prizes will be given out. RSVP to Kathy Mason at kdmason@freemanhealth.com or 417.347.8463.

October 29: Clays for a Cause, Shawnee Skies Shooting Complex & Training Center, 11245 S. 705 Rd., Wyandotte, Oklahoma. Join us for our ninth annual Clays for a Cause sporting clay tournament benefiting Bill & Virginia Leffen Center for Autism! The event includes a raffle, side events and mulligans. And, new this year – CASH PRIZES for top three teams and $1,000 cash prize for top individual shooter! Entry fee is $100 per person and includes lunch, T-shirt and 100 clays. Register at ozarkcenter.com/clays.

National Alliance on Mental Illness - For information on NAMI, call 417.781.6264 or visit www.namijoplin.org. Meetings held at the NAMI building, 219 W. 2nd St., in Joplin.

Every Monday: NAMI Basics, 6-8:30 pm. A signature education program for parents and caregivers of children and adolescents living with mental illnesses.

Every Tuesday: NAMI Connection Support Group, 6:30-8 pm.

Every Tuesday: Self Injury Support Group, 5-6 pm.

Every Tuesday: Family Support Group, 6:30-8 pm.

Every Wednesday: Dual Diagnosis Support Group, 2:30-3:30 pm.

Every Wednesday: Post 5/22 Stress Counseling Sessions, 10 am.

Every Thursday: Family to Family Class, 6:30-8:30 pm. For families or caregivers of individuals with severe mental illnesses. Includes current information about most major mental illnesses; information about medications, side effects and strategies for medication adherence; developing strategies for handling crises and relapse; focusing on care for the caregiver.

Returning to Work After Breast Cancer

Article provided by Freeman Health System

The breast cancer treatments are over and now it’s time to return to work. Life after breast cancer means returning to some familiar things and also making some new choices. After a marathon of breast cancer diagnosis and treatment that may last 6 months to a year, women are eager to get back to a normal life again, and that often includes getting back to work. Transitioning from breast cancer treatment patient to breast cancer survivor is embracing the “new woman” and entering into the “new normal.”

Returning to work post-treatment can be an emotional experience for many women who often feel conflicted. On one hand, women look forward to returning to a work routine and on the other hand, they dread it. Adding to the awkwardness are the after-effects of treatment such as fatigue resulting from chemotherapy and/or the accumulated effects of other treatments as well as a phenomenon some people call “chemobrain” – mental changes such as memory deficits and the inability to focus.

Adding to the frustrating mix, co-workers tell survivors how they look and ask questions about treatment. How open women are with their co-workers about their breast cancer and health after treatment is a personal decision. Some coworkers will be understanding and offer help while others

may be uncomfortable discussing it or resent that they had to take on extra duties on days when the person was absent. Others may ask intrusive questions about the breast cancer, the person’s health, why they’ve been gone or even avoid them. Based on the relationship with co-workers, women can decide if they want to share anything and think ahead about how they will handle other people’s reactions and have a plan for what and how much they want to share. It’s important for women to make sure they’re medically cleared by their health care provider before returning to work. They can also talk with their employer about possible options, like flex-time, job sharing, working from home or other options that may help ease them back into the demands of a job. For some people, the transition to working full-time may be easy, and for others it may take some adjustment.

The benefits of going back to work include helping ladies keep their sense of who they are and how they fit in. It might even boost their self-esteem, not to mention their income. Returning to their job also reminds women that they have a life apart from breast cancer – they are a valued employee, a great boss or a trusted co-worker.

The good news is, with time, little by little, most women start to feel like their regular selves once medications are completed and the exhaustion subsides. It takes time for the “new you” to settle in. Truly, time heals many wounds and having a job can divert attention away from the stressors of the breast cancer journey and allow women to refocus on other things in life and create their own “new normal.”

R eturning to work post-treatment can be an emotional experience for many women who often feel conflicted between wanting to go on with life and being able to cope with the daily pressures.

Pumpkin Spice

A mixture of nutrition

By Bradley Morris

Fall is officially here and all sorts of pumpkin spice-flavored foods and snacks are all around us. While a lot of the snacks being sold in grocery stores or fast-food restaurants are not healthy choices, the good news is pumpkin spice itself actually has a lot of value to your health with each spice potentially bringing some sort of vitamin or mineral that can help you stay healthy.

To be clear, I am not saying pumpkin spice desserts or drinks are healthy; most of them are not. There are, however, health benefits to the spices used in pumpkin spice. The mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger and allspice have health benefits such as increasing vitamin and mineral intake, relieving digestive problems and helping better control blood sugar. This means pumpkin spice can be a really great choice to enhance the health benefits (and flavor) of healthier dishes such as yogurt or whole-grain cereal. If you make smoothies or energy bites at home, pumpkin spice can also be used in those. Also, pumpkin itself is very nutritious, and pure pumpkin puree in a smoothie tastes great with a homemade pumpkin spice mix.

Can you buy premixed spices? Sure, but you should always be careful. Some premixed spices contain sulfiting agents, which are safe for most people but can have adversarial effects. We still don’t understand the effects sulfiting agents have, but they have been linked to severe asthma attacks, an increase in migraines, joint pain and even heart palpitations. Again, this isn’t a strongly understood connection, so you will have to decide what you want to do for yourself.

One benefit of mixing your own pumpkin spice mix is you can alter the spice proportions and even choose spices to include or exclude. For example, many recipes online call for ground cardamom but many packaged mixtures you can buy at the store do not include cardamom. If you like the taste of cardamom or want its health benefits, making your own mixture is a great way to incorporate it. You could also include less traditional pumpkin spice spices such as star anise. It might taste a little different, but making different mixes in small doses is a great way to experiment to find a flavor you really enjoy.

Another option is mixing spices into premade mixes, but if there’s a spice you want to take out you wouldn’t be able to do that. Even though I suggest mixing your own since having individual spices in your pantry is useful anyway, some of the organic premade pumpkin spice mixes do offer a good base if you want to minimize the amount of mixing you do.

There’s no reason you should feel guilty when eating or drinking something with pumpkin spice if you opt for a healthy choice. As always, check nutrition labels and keep unhealthy snacks to a minimum, but otherwise there’s no reason you can’t have a fall filled with delicious spices!

With the creation of six drug courts in Jasper County, having one judge to serve all of them was needed. On July 1, Kimberly Fisher started her new role as the Jasper County Treatment Court Commissioner.

A graduate of Missouri Southern State University with a B.S. in sociology, Fisher received her Juris Doctorate from Thomas Jefferson School of Law in San Diego, California. An assistant prosecuting attorney in Jasper County for 16 years, Fisher was active in the treatment courts for 14 of those years and specialized in juvenile victims and also was a Carthage municipal judge.

As commissioner, Fisher will preside over Veterans Court, Recovery (Drug) Court, Co-occurring Disorders (Mental Health) Court, DWI Court, Jasper County Court Supervision Program and Juvenile Division Programs. Her experience as an assistant prosecuting attorney dealing in the drug courts and as a victim advocate in law school was a natural progression to commissioner.

“When I was an assistant PA, going to recovery court was the highlight of my week,” Fisher said. “Our participants included veterans, victims of sexual abuse, people with brain injuries or severe mental illness, and those who were exposed to hard drugs as early as age seven. These experiences don’t just go away. We have tried putting them in prison, but that often just makes things worse when they get out. Even when someone really wants help, it is difficult to navigate the system. Treatment courts work by connecting participants to resources while holding them accountable. It is incredible to watch our participants transform their lives, and it is still the highlight of my week.”

Kimberly Fisher Named Jasper County Treatment Court Commissioner

By Bridget Bauer

Though treatment court manuals exist, Fisher has flexibility in how to handle each case. Different addictions have different treatment plans. While the treatment courts can help individuals get into classes like parenting classes, all treatment court participants must have a job unless a handicap exists.

Teddy Steen, executive director of ASCENT Recovery Residences is a member of the treatment court team. She is a case manager in the Jasper County Court Supervision Program and has experience in all areas of the treatment courts.

“Teddy has been a great resource,” Fisher said. “For those who have no experience on the path (to recovery), Teddy has walked the walk.”

A staunch believer in treatment courts, Steen says the addition of Fisher as the commissioner will lead to more uniformity. She also likes how the courts are providing more community service activities for the treatment court offenders.

“With the treatment courts under one judge, there will be more consistency,” Steen said. “(Before Fisher), the treatment court was not the judges’ primary duty, and they had a large docket of criminal cases for which they were responsible. It is a whole different dynamic, and the participants know they have a team of people who care about and will help them navigate a new pathway.”

The treatment courts had several events in August and September. In August, the Jasper County Court had a large back-to-school supply event, an overdose awareness walk and a rock painting and art contest have also been held. These events and future events are to get the participants involved in the community and help them obtain community service hours.

“One thing Kimberly likes to do is bring out the talents in the participants,” Steen said. “They are very talented and creative people, and we want to help them find their passions. She is big on helping them find out what they are meant to be or what motivates them.”

Golden Hourin the Fall

Field notes by Jeff Cantrell Photos courtesy of the Missouri Dept. of Conservation

I, myself, have often extended my arm toward the setting sun. I judge the goldenhour timeframe with the space of one or two spaces of my fist between the setting sun and the distant horizon. Perhaps you must be in the setting and experience its magic, but to me, it’s truly magical and difficult to convey the beauty of sight and sounds. It is common for the wind to lessen at this time of day, and the light is shining almost horizontally on the landscape and its plant life.

The sounds of autumn’s golden hour are not as harsh with blasting and buzzing as we may have witnessed in July, August or September. At the time, those summer cicadas, tree crickets, red-winged blackbirds, etc., were the players in the habitat’s summer soundtrack. Now, in October, we can often single out individual sounds of true bugs, grasshoppers and birds near and far. At the edge or midst of an Ozark savanna, prairie or wetland, I can relive a text from Aldo Leopold, one of the founders of the conservation philosophy.

Aldo penned, “Out of the clouds I hear a faint bark, as of a far-away dog. It is strange how the world cocks its ear at that sound, wondering. Soon it is louder: the honk of geese, invisible, but coming-on. The flock emerges from the low clouds, a tattered banner of birds, dipping and rising, blown up and blown down, blown together and blown apart, but advancing, the wind wrestling lovingly with each winnowing wing. When the flock is a blur in the far sky I hear the last honk, sounding Taps for summer.”

October is celebrated for it striking autumn tree color, and for good reason. The color intensity of native maples, hickories, black gum, persimmons and sassafras is inspiring. The colors change throughout the forest and wetlands this month not only week by week, but also during the day as the sunlight plays on the canopies and wetland forbs.

The color scene should not be overlooked at our feet or eye-level either. Fragrant sumac shrubs hold many benefits for landscaping purposes in someone’s yard, including erosion control, perks for butterflies and songbirds, and gorgeous fall beauty. We may know of shining blue star’s dazzling flowers at the edge of wetlands or blooming in our flowerbeds during late spring; however, long after the blooms fade, the foliage is a masterpiece itself.

Fall certainly recalls the color of changing leaves, but we still have new color coming on with fall bloomers. Many native fall-blooming plants will keep displaying flora arrangement past frosts and freezes. New England asters are recommended for the back of a flowerbed because of the height they may reach in good soil. We know this aster from some of the wet, wild areas we naturalists love! Aromatic asters appear like rounded, small shrubs in sunny locations. They have a continuing blooming cycle past a hard frost and are truly a magnet for several species of skippers and well-known welcomed butterflies. A planted aromatic aster brings much delight to a schoolyard or one’s own backyard, helping the golden hour shine on something easily at hand.

Autumn days pass too quickly. I hope all lovers of the outdoors are able to carve out some quiet time and enjoy these riches. I hope to catch you on a fall trail or maybe enjoying the waterfowl at Four Rivers or the blooming willow asters at Prairie State Park this coming month. – Jeff

Jeff Cantrell is an outdoor educator and naturalist. Email: jeff.cantrell@mdc.mo.gov.

I’ve known many wildlife photographers and naturalists who refer to the time before sunset as the golden hour. This sector of time may vary easily from 30 minutes to a 90-minute period.

The Great

OUTDOORS

A FAMILY TRADITION

It’s early October and leaves are starting to change. Temperatures are cool. Something is happening deep within the souls of our family. It is an uncontrollable desire that takes over our minds and bodies. It is time to go hunting again.

We love hunting. Not for the killing of the game, but for all the special moments and memories that happen when we are out in squirrel woods, dove fields, duck blinds, turkey blinds and deer stands. It is a family tradition.

I have special memories of hunting with our son Daron. First, it was rabbits,squirrels and doves. Then, it was deer hunting and his first buck, then another and another with a lot of does and a few turkeys for the freezer.

Our other son Kelly never really had the desire to hunt. He tried but did not like it. That is okay and was his choice. Later though, when he had kids of his own and our grandsons Ty and Sam wanted to learn to hunt, they tried deer and squirrel hunting together. Maybe when they grow up and have kids, Grandpa Kelly will be out hunting with them. If they do not continue to go hunting, that is okay, too. It will be their choice.

Daron’s first child was a boy they named Hunter. A name that turned out to be appropriate. He loves hunting as much as his papaw and his dad. I think about him as a 3-year-old little boy dressed in camouflage. He went turkey hunting with his dad and me for the first time. I still picture him and his dad walking down a lane together.

Hunter has been in deer stands, squirrel woods, on duck water and in turkey blinds ever since. He has grown to understand, like his papaw and dad, that being out there in God’s great outdoors is what it is all about whether you harvest game or not.

Hunter met Molly in college. They are married now and hunt ducks, turkey and deer together. Knowing my grandson, I would say it won’t be long until they are hunting elk, pronghorn antelope, mule deer, moose and bear together. We all love Molly. They will continue the hunting tradition and pass it on to their kids.

My granddaughter Anna is a cute, petite young lady who loves doing all the girly stuff and shopping with mom and grandma. She’s been a gymnast, took dance classes, performed in school plays, showed cattle and was a cheerleader. She also shoots rifles, pistols and reloads ammunition.

She took her first deer at 10 years old and several more since. Plus, turkey. Her dad has shared her hunting stories and hunting pictures with the young man to whom she is now engaged. Dad, big brother and her papaw will be a little protective of her. He is not a hunter but is willing to learn. Even if he does not, I bet Grandpa Daron will have his grandkids out there hunting.

I am not telling you all this to brag. Well, maybe a little. I do believe the outdoors has the power to change kids’ lives for the better. So do parents and grandparents. Hunter and Anna are blessed to have the mom and dad they have. Ty and Sam are also blessed. One day, they will realize that and be grateful.

I am a little prejudiced and proud. All are good kids. They are who they are because of sacrifices, discipline and love from their mom and dad. Grandparents have also been a part in shaping their lives.

Hunting has been an important part of our family. The venison, waterfowl and other game have nourished our bodies. Time together out hunting has nourished our souls. I believe they will all remember the memories and create their own.

There is no doubt in my mind our grandkids will pass their love of hunting on to their kids. Proud grandpas will be out there with them just like I was. The family tradition of hunting will continue. I will look down from heaven and smile.

A HUNTER’S PRAYER

We pray our sight is straight and our aim is true.

We pray for no pain in the game we pursue.

We thank the Lord for this land.

We thank thee for the sights in our stands.

We pray for the safety one and all.

We pray we may return again next fall.”

-S. Elliot

THE WISDOM OF OLD BOONE

Approach the sport of hunting with a positive mental attitude. Understand the reasons why you hunt. Then, concentrate entirely on the fulfillment and enjoyment hunting can bring your life.

Fish are likely to be shallower and more active in rivers during early fall because they cool down quicker than in lakes.

DEER DAMAGE

Those reading this who think we should not allow deer hunting need to know these facts.

Every year in the US, there are over one million crashes with deer on highways. The average damage is $3,200 per crash. That adds up to over $3 billion in damages per year. About 200 people lose their lives in motor vehicle crashes with deer. Ten thousand more are injured.

Deer destroy more than $275 million in shrubs, foliage and young trees in suburban neighborhoods. They also bring ticks to your yard and several diseases.

Out in the country, deer cause over $750 million in damage to timber holdings. That drives up the cost of wood for building your houses. Crop and orchard damage by deer exceeds $100 million. That increases the price you pay for food.

Would you like to go deer hunting with me this year?

SOMETHING TO THINK ABOUT “October had tremendous possibility. The summer’s oppressive heat was a distant memory, and the golden leaves promised a world full of beautiful adventures. They made me believe in miracles.”

-Sarah Guillory

TICKS