21ST Annual 4-States Baby Contest Winners

By Kathleen Swift

A big thank you to our judges, who oohed and aahed over every picture: Patrick Tuttle, director Convention/Visitors Bureau at City of Joplin; Cavanaugh Studyvin, executive director at Carl Junction Area Chamber of Commerce; Sarah Peavler, owner at The Social Sip; Emily Gibson, communication coordinator, Ronald McDonald House Charities of the 4-States; Alisha Nunnelly, Pro 100 Realtors at Howie’s Home Team; Laura Gullett, development & CMN program manager; Mandy Edmonson, chief photographer-Show Me The Ozarks Magazine; and Kathleen Swift, associate editor-Show Me The Ozarks Magazine.

All proceeds from the entry fees benefit our local Children’s Miracle Network hospital, which is dedicated to supporting sick and injured children. So, enjoy the pictures of the cutest babies in the Four States, and let their smiles brighten your day!

1STplace

Carter Hickam

With bright blue eyes and curls galore, 22-monthold Carter is our first-place winner. Mom Allie and Dad Hayden say Carter is obsessed with baa-baa black sheep. He has three stuffed sheep he carries around and sleeps with, and he sings the song over and over. He is the sweetest, well-mannered boy who says thank you for everything. Carter loves animals, including his two dogs. He can identify 20 different animals and the sounds they make. Carter loves to be outside and especially likes to splash in water. And as for those curls, he still has them after his first haircut, so it looks like the curls are here to stay!

Legend Hobbs

Legend is something of a miracle baby for Tiffany and Jason Hobbs. The couple have five children from previous marriages and didn’t think they could have another child. But Legend made his appearance in January, completing the family. In a nod to dad Jason’s Choctaw heritage, Tiffany used the headdress to honor Legend’s native culture. At three months old, Legend is smiling and laughing and tries to talk to his family.

2ND place