August 2025 Show Me The Ozarks Magazine

SHOW ME THE OZARKS August 2025 Contents

Cover Story

29 The Journey of Will Jewett: From Pittsburg to Broadway Cheers to the Years!

24 Celebrating 50 Years: Wolkar Drug

25 Celebrating 11 Years: Bicknell Family Center for the Arts

25 Celebrating 100 Years: Pittsburg Memorial Auditorium

Featuring Southeast Kansas

26 Faces of Southeast Kansas

32 College-town Feel Prevalent in Pittsburg

36 40 Years of Little Balkans Days

38 The Frontenac Public Library: Bringing Heritage, Community and Books Together

40 Real Life, Real Possibilities and a Lifetime of Friendship at Mosaic

43 Entrepreneurial Spirit Breathes Life into Historic Pittsburg Landmark

46 Celebrating Community in Southeast Kansas

48 Thomas Jefferson Independent Day School Surpasses 500-alumni Milestone

50 Joplin Area Catholic Schools Celebrate 140 Years

52 From Storage Closet to Sanctuary: How One Teacher Transformed a Room—and Lives—at Park Elementary

54 Navigating the Summer Slide with Compass Academy

56 Faces of Education

When Pittsburg, Kansas, native Will Jewett steps on stage, there’s an undeniable energy that pulls audiences in. Whether he’s dancing under Broadway lights or appearing on the big screen, Will brings with him talent and the heart of a small-town kid who never stopped chasing the next big moment.

Can you find it?

in every edition

What’s Happening in the Ozarks

8 Cultural Arts & Entertainment

10 Calendar of Events: There’s still plenty of summer fun to be had in the Four States! Learn about stream fishing and black bears—this is home to a growing population of black bears. Get out of the heat with some art classes and DIY craft classes. And be sure to pick up your fresh produce at some of the many farmer’s markets in the Four-State Area this month!

17 Faces & Places: Havana Nights

20 Business Spotlights

home/lifestyle

15 Recipe: Zucchini Pasta with Ricotta Turkey Meatballs

16 Tastes of the 4-States: Smokey Racks BBQ

18 Show Me Dining Guide

66 The Great Outdoors: Memories of Summer

68 A Naturalist Voice: Dog Days of Summer Habitat Inventory

health

69 Fit for Life: Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Small Servings with Big Benefits

70 Freeman Health System: Investing in Heart Care

71 Health Events

72 First Joplin Expungement Event a Success

Find the GREEN smiley face on one of our pages! Email wendy@ showmetheozarks.com with the page number, the spot where you found it and your mailing address. Submit your entry by the 15th of the month. A winner will be drawn from all the correct entries and will receive a free one-year subscription to the magazine. If you’re already a subscriber, your subscription will be extended by one year.

Congratulations to Suzanne Carney of Joplin, Missouri, the winner of the July edition Find the Green Smiley Face contest! Suzanne wins a free one-year subscription to Show Me The Ozarks Magazine. The Green Smiley was on page 45 behind Brenna Morey.

13 Joplin Arts District

14 Spotlight on Carthage

22 The Creative Edge: Little Balkans Quilt Guild

60 Ode to ‘Road House’ Movie Materializes in Gas and Grocery Store

62 Claire’s Reading Program: Encouraging Reading and Promoting Kindness

64 Why I Ride: Biking Builds Relationships Amongst Like-minded Outdoor Enthusiasts

Investing in your future

Staff

PUBLISHER/EDITOR

Wendy Brunner

PUBLISHER

Kevin Elrod

ADVERTISING MANAGER

Joely Edwards

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Cyndi King

SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER

Brooklyn Cady

STAFF WRITERS

Bridget Bauer

Jeff Cantrell

Jaiden Dorris

Amy Howe

Don Lowe

Kevin McClintock

Angela Meyer

Bradley Morris

Heather Reynolds

Allison Riechman-Bennett

Kristi Spencer Larry Whiteley

PHOTOGRAPHER

Mandy Edmonson

DISTRIBUTION

Kevin Elrod

Gary and Desma Sisco

Unofficial End of Summer

I have a confession. I’ve never liked August. It’s hot and humid, and everything that was once green becomes brown and crispy. It used to be the last free month before school started but it was hard to enjoy because the first day of school loomed just past August. Now it’s the month most schools in our area start back. Summer is winding down.

I liked school, I just liked the freedom and casual feel of summer better. My kids are in high school and college now, so back-to-school time isn’t quite as hectic and dramatic for me since we’re no longer trying to find everything on the school supply list, but I still can’t say I like August. I do, however, like featuring our friends in Southeast Kansas in our August issue. And since it is August, this issue is our back-to-school issue.

Joplin Area Catholic Schools is celebrating 140 years in Joplin. And St. Ann’s Catholic School in Carthage is now part of the JACS school system. Thomas Jefferson Independent Day School reached a big milestone this past spring when its 500th alum crossed the stage at graduation. There are a lot more unique stories about local education in the issue, too.

Our cover story is about Will Jewett, a Pittsburg, Kansas, native who now graces the Broadway stage and Hollywood big screens. He had a dream and he made it happen, although he hasn’t forgotten his small-town roots. And SEK is a hotbed of town festivals in August and the coming months, so be sure to check those out.

Our Cheers to the Years section features local businesses that are celebrating milestones in their history. Congratulations to them! We’re celebrating, too. This month marks 24 years of Show Me The Ozarks Magazine. That’s 24 years of sharing your stories, your wins and your challenges. A lot can happen in 24 years, and we’re honored to be part of the fabric of the Four States. Best wishes to the students, school staff, teachers, bus drivers and administration during the 2025-2026 school year!

Wendy Brunner, Publisher/Editor wendy@showmetheozarks.com

P.O. Box 3325 • Joplin, MO 64803 844.417.SMTO (7686)

CULTURAL ARTS & Entertainment

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

Aug. 2: Stained Glass Theatre Joplin Variety Show, 7 p.m. (doors 6:15 p.m.), Stained Glass Theatre Joplin, 2101 Annie Baxter Ave. Enjoy an evening of family fun, skits, songs, games and activities in this annual fundraiser. Purchase tickets at the door. Tickets: Adults $12, kids $5. Information: ticketing@sgtjoplin.com.

Aug. 7-10: “Legally Blonde - The Musical” performed by Triple Threat Threeatrics, Memorial Auditorium, 503 N. Pine., Pittsburg, Kansas. Aug. 7-9 at 7 p.m. and Aug. 10 at 2 p.m. Tickets: $20. Visit memorialauditorium.ludus.com to purchase tickets.

Aug. 10: Texas Blues Guitar Summit Featuring Anson Funderburgh, Mike Morgan and Shawn Pittman, 7 p.m. (doors 6:30 p.m.), The Coda Concert House, 2120 E. 24th St., Joplin. Something that has never happened at The Coda Concert House—three legendary electric guitar players performing on stage with their full band! For reservations, email info@codaconcerthouse. com. In response to reservations, a confirmation email with the address, directions, parking, etc., will be sent. All proceeds benefit the artist performing. Suggested donation: $35. Information: info@codaconcerthouse.com.

Aug. 13: Paul Thorn House Concert, 7:30 p.m. (doors 7 p.m.), The Coda Concert House, 2120 E. 24th St., Joplin. Paul Thorn has spent three decades turning soulful grooves and small syllables into songs that pack a big wallop. For reservations, email info@codaconcerthouse.com. In response to reservations, a confirmation email with the address, directions, parking, etc., will be sent. All proceeds benefit the artist performing. Suggested donation: $75. Information: info@codaconcerthouse.com.

Aug. 16: Concerts in the Park Featuring Playlist, 7-9 p.m., Central Park, 714 S. Garrison Ave., Carthage. Enjoy this performance from Playlist, featuring a mix of classic rock and country hits. Free. Bring your own chair. Information: carthagecouncilonthearts@gmail.com.

Aug. 16: North Heights Porchfest Teaser Show, 7:30 p.m. (doors 7 p.m.), Main Event, 611 S. Main St., Joplin. North Heights Porchfest presents James Weaver and Tragic Prelude in a teaser show at the Main Event’s stage. Grab a bite to eat from Driveway Diner BBQ beginning at 6 p.m. and enjoy the music at 7:30 p.m. Admission: $10. Information: northheightsporchfest@gmail.com, 479.366.2005.

EVENTS:

Aug. 2: JoMoCon 2025, 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Joplin Expo, 359 S. Northpark Ln., Ste. 1, Joplin. JoMoCon features live performances, vendors and artists, a cosplay contest, various kinds of gaming and special guests. This year, a portion of the proceeds will be donated to Bright Futures Joplin. Register and pay in advance at jomocon.org. Cost: Adults (ages 13+) $15, children (ages 6-12) $10, children (ages 5-under) free. Information: contact@jomocon.org, 417.592.7438.

Aug. 7: First Thursday ArtWalk, 5:30-8:30 p.m., 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 from local musicians. Map of participating locations is available at facebook.com/FirstThursdayArtWalkJoplin. Free. Information: lteeter00@gmail.com, 417.438.5931.

Aug. 9: Model Train Show and Swap Meet, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Joplin History & Mineral Museum, 504 Schifferdecker Ave., Joplin. Join fellow train enthusiasts in admiring intricate model train displays and update your collection at swap tables. Admission: Adults $5, children 12-under free. Information: homerbedloe@yahoo.com, 417.499.9914.

Aug. 9: 10th Annual Joplin Area Arts & Cultural Preview, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Harry M. Cornell Arts & Entertainment Complex, Beshore Performance Hall, 212 W. Seventh St., Joplin. Connect2Culture’s Joplin Area Arts & Cultural Preview is an annual event that gives arts and cultural organizations the chance to tell their story and share what they have planned for the year ahead. Each organization has a total of two minutes to present. Free. Information: lauren@connect2culture.org, 417.501.5550.

Aug. 9: North Heights Market in the Park, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Michael and Jeri Lynn Joseph Family Park, 610 W. F St., Joplin. Find handmade arts and crafts, vintage or collectible treasures, boutique-level clothing and accessories, natural cleaning products, fresh farmer’s market produce, cold drinks, sweet treats or other prepared foods. Vendors: Register by emailing northheightsmarketinthepark@gmail.com or visiting facebook. com/North.Heights.Market.in.the.Park. Free. Information: northheightsmarketinthepark@gmail.com, 417.499.5998.

Aug. 14: Joplin Writers’ Guild, 6 p.m., Joplin Public Library, 1901 E. 20th St., Joplin. Includes a variety of writers from hobbyists to professional, published writers. Members have published novels, nonfiction books and articles. Open to the public. Dues are $10 for the year, but anyone interested can attend their first meeting free. Information: s.v.farnsworth@gmail.com, 417.691.0480.

Aug. 21: Third Thursday, 5:30-8:30 p.m., downtown Joplin. Thousands of people gather on Main Street to enjoy local artisans, music, entertainment and food. Free. Information: info@downtownjoplin.com, 417.501.9649.

Aug. 22: Opening Receptions – Watercolor USA 2025 and “Alchemy of Light & Shadow” by Jeffrey C. Legg, 5:30-7:30 p.m., Harry M. Cornell Arts & Entertainment Complex, Spiva Center for the Arts, 212 W. Seventh St., Joplin. Celebrate the openings of two highly anticipated exhibits during this come-and-go reception. Free; donations appreciated. Information: spiva@spivaarts.org, 417.623.0183.

Aug. 28: Open Mic Night, 7-9:30 p.m., Joplin Avenue Coffee Company, 506 S. Joplin Ave., Joplin. Performers are each allotted 5-8 minutes per set. Two vocal mics, a quarter-inch plug-in for guitar/piano and an aux cable are available. To sign up early, message them at facebook. com/joplinavecoffeeco. All ages welcome. Free. Information: autumn@ joplinavenuecoffeecompany.com, 417.206.5222.

EXHIBITS:

May 12-Aug. 7: “What Dreams May Come” by Joplin Regional Artists Coalition (JRAC), Missouri Southern State University Cragin Art Gallery, 3950 E. Newman Rd., Joplin. See a collection of 37 pieces of artwork from the JRAC artists. Free. Information: bentley-c@mssu.edu, 417.625.9563.

June 21-Aug. 9: “Authenticity EXE – Between Presence and Projection,” Harry M. Cornell Arts & Entertainment Complex, Spiva Center for the Arts, 212 W. Seventh St., Joplin. “Authenticity EXE – Between Presence and Projection” deals with how the digital world impacts identity. This exhibit is about digital identity, virtual spaces and mental health. Free; donations appreciated. Information: sconroy@spivaarts.org, 417.623.0183.

June 21-Aug. 9: “Behind the Mask,” Harry M. Cornell Arts & Entertainment Complex, Spiva Center for the Arts, 212 W. Seventh St. “Behind the Mask” challenges audiences to examine how we navigate the complex relationship between our public selves and our private identities. Whether literal, metaphorical or psychological, the “mask” serves as a symbol of the roles we adopt, the facades we construct and the truth we conceal. Information: sconroy@spivaarts.org, 417.623.0183.

July 10-Aug. 17: Summer Reading Art Challenge 2025 Exhibit, Joplin Public Library, 1901 E. 20th St., Joplin. Creativity and imagination abound in this exhibit, which features artwork created for Post Art Library’s Summer Reading Art Challenge 2025. Each piece was inspired by the Missouri statewide theme, “Color Your World.” Free. Information: jill@postartlibrary.org, 417.623.7953 X1041.

Aug. 23-Oct. 25: “Alchemy of Light & Shadow” by Jeffery C. Legg Harry M. Cornell Arts & Entertainment Complex, Spiva Center for the Arts, 212 W. Seventh St., Joplin. Renowned oil painter Jeffrey C. Legg returns to his Joplin roots with his first solo exhibition. This compelling body of work explores the emotional and perceptual interplay between light and shadow, inviting viewers to reflect on the unseen forces that shape what and how we see. Free; donations appreciated. Information: sconroy@spivaarts.org, 417.623.0183.

Aug. 23-Oct. 11: Watercolor USA 2025, Harry M. Cornell Arts & Entertainment Complex, Spiva Center for the Arts, 212 W. Seventh St., Joplin. Watercolor USA 2025 is a prestigious national competitive exhibition celebrating water media painting. This year marks its inaugural presentation by Spiva Center for the Arts after being hosted by the Springfield Art Museum in Springfield, Missouri, since 1962. Free; donations appreciated. Information: sconroy@spivaarts.org, 417.623.0183.

CLASSES:

Aug. 1, 15 & 22: Studio 55 – Open Studio (ages 55+), 2-4 p.m., Harry M. Cornell Arts & Entertainment Complex, Spiva Center for the Arts, 212 W. Seventh St., Joplin. In this open studio facilitated by Jesse McCormick, various supplies and mediums are available to use and experiment with, or participants may bring their own. Start a new project or bring something you’ve been working on and enjoy the camaraderie of like-minded artists—beginner, advanced and in-between! Registration required; register at spivaarts.org/series/studio-55. All supplies provided. Suggested donation: $10. Information: dhernandez@spivaarts.org, 417.621.9813.

Aug. 2: Drawing with Objects – A Class with Kinley Young (ages 16+), 10:15 a.m.-1:15 p.m., Harry M. Cornell Arts & Entertainment Complex, Spiva Center for the Arts, 212 W. Seventh St., Joplin. Students will gather found objects and materials—brought from home and provided by the instructor—to create a layered assemblage that incorporates drawing elements. Registration required; register in person or at spivaarts.org/event/drawing-with-objects-a-class-with-kinley-young. Cost: $25. Information: dhernandez@spivaarts.org, 417.621.9813.

Aug. 8 & 29: Studio 55 – Guided Class (ages 55+), 2-4 p.m., Harry M. Cornell Arts & Entertainment Complex, Spiva Center for the Arts, 212 W. Seventh St., Joplin. Jordan Murdock-Thompson will guide participants through a diverse range of structured art classes, covering various mediums and techniques. All supplies provided. Registration required; register at spivaarts.org/series/studio-55. Suggested donation: $10. Information: dhernandez@spivaarts.org, 417.621.9813.

Aug. 9: Beginner Crochet with Adria Garrison (ages 14+), 1:30-4:30 p.m., Harry M. Cornell Arts & Entertainment Complex, Spiva Center for the Arts, 212 W. Seventh St., Joplin. Students will be introduced to essential techniques such as the magic ring, chain stitch and single crochet, and how to increase and decrease stitches to create shaping. Each participant will receive a crochet kit that includes all the materials needed for the project. Registration required; register in person or at spivaarts.org/event/beginner-crochet-with-adria-garrison. Cost: $45. Information: dhernandez@spivaarts.org, 417.621.9813.

Aug. 16: Sculpting with Armature – A Class with Kinley Young (ages 15+), 12:30-4:30 p.m., Harry M. Cornell Arts & Entertainment Complex, Spiva Center for the Arts, 212 W. Seventh St., Joplin. This hands-on workshop will guide students through the process of sculpting a realistic bust or body part using a simple armature, tin foil and polymer clay. Once completed, sculptures will be left to air-dry, allowing students to take home their finished piece. Registration required; register in person or at spivaarts. org/event/sculpting-with-armature-a-class-with-kinley-young. Cost: $40. Information: dhernandez@spivaarts.org, 417.621.9813.

Aug. 16: Glass Cactus Planters with Jane McCaulley (ages 8+), 2:30-4:30 p.m., Harry M. Cornell Arts & Entertainment Complex, Spiva Center for the Arts, 212 W. Seventh St., Joplin. Participants will create

their own glass cactus—perfect for plant lovers and plant admirers. After the class, your finished design will be fired in Jane’s glass kiln and returned for pickup in approximately one to two weeks. Registration required; register in person or at spivaarts.org/event/glass-cactusplanters-with-jane-mccaulley. Cost: $45. Information: dhernandez@ spivaarts.org, 417.621.9813.

Aug. 23: Watercolor Open Studio (ages 16+), 1-4 p.m., Harry M. Cornell Arts & Entertainment Complex, Spiva Center for the Arts, 212 W. Seventh St., Joplin. Whether you’re an experienced watercolor artist or just starting out, this session provides a relaxed environment to create and connect with other artists. Bring your own materials or use Spiva’s. Registration required; register in person or at spivaarts.org/event/watercolor-open-studio. Cost: $10-$20. Information: dhernandez@spivaarts.org, 417.621.9813.

Aug. 30: Pink Eraser Prints with Ciera West (ages 15+), 1-5 p.m., Harry M. Cornell Arts & Entertainment Complex, Spiva Center for the Arts, 212 W. Seventh St., Joplin. Students will carve a mini design into a pink eraser, transforming it into a personalized stamp. Participants will leave with their own custom eraser stamp and a set of prints to take home. Registration required; register in person or at spivaarts.org/event/pink-eraser-prints-with-ciera-west. Cost: $45. Information: dhernandez@spivaarts.org, 417.621.9813.

RECURRING CLASSES:

Create N Sip Studios, 1505 W. 10th St., Joplin:

Wednesdays: Wine’d Down Wednesday, 5-9 p.m. A Canvas and Home Decor DIY Event. Choose the project that works for you. Prices vary depending on chosen project Cost: $28-$58. Information: coleman@creatensip.com, 417.680.5434.

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

Firehouse Pottery-Joplin, 112 S. Main St., Joplin:

Tuesdays: Ladies’ Night Out (ages 18+), until 8 p.m. Enjoy a creative evening. Free studio fees. Information: firehousepotteryjoplin@gmail. com, 417.553.0671.

Fridays: Date Night, until 8 p.m. Friday nights are date night 2-for-1 studio fees for all couples. Information: firehousepotteryjoplin@gmail. com, 417.553.0671.

Judy’s Ballroom Dance, 3950 E. Newman Rd., Joplin:

Mondays-Fridays: Judy’s Ballroom Dance Private Lessons. Judy Schneider can help transform you into a skilled, elegant dancer! Call 417.392.0215 to book your private lesson. Cost: $50 per hour. Information: schneider-j@mssu.edu, 417.392.0215.

Spiva Center for the Arts, 212 W. Seventh St., Joplin:

Fridays: Mini Makers with Jade Henning-Cantrell (ages 2-5), 10:1511:15 a.m. With their parent or guardian’s guidance, little artists will experiment with different art materials, meet new friends and enjoy a mix of movement and music to keep the energy flowing. Registration required; register at spivaarts.org. Cost: $8. Information: dhernandez@ spivaarts.org, 417.621.9813.

Tanglefooter’s Round Dance Club, 1802 W. Second St., Joplin:

Mondays: Tanglefooter’s Round Dance Club, 7-8 p.m. Learn choreographed ballroom dancing every Monday (except holidays) with our experienced teachers. Ages 14-up. Cost: Individual $7.50, couple $15. Information: mike@gfeneosho.com, 417.529.0686.

SHOW ME Calendar of Events

What’s Happening

in the Ozarks

If you have an event you would like to see listed in the Calendar of Events, please email your request to: wendy@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.

Support Your Local Farmer’s Market

Carthage, MO: Wednesdays and Saturdays, 8 a.m.-1 p.m., Central Park, 714 Garrison Ave.

Joplin, MO: Saturdays, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Empire Market, 931 E. 4th St.

Lamar, MO: Saturdays, 8 a.m.-noon, Moore Pavilion, 10th & Poplar St.

Neosho, MO: Saturdays, 9 a.m.-noon, historic downtown Neosho. Also, Tuesdays during peak season (mid-June through mid-August), 4-7 p.m.

Webb City, MO: Tuesdays, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.; Thursdays (July ONLY) 11 a.m.-2 p.m.; Saturdays (all year long), 9 a.m.-noon, 106 E. Tracy St.

Parsons, KS: Through Oct. 31. Tuesdays, 3-6 p.m.; Saturdays 8-11 a.m.; northeast corner of Forest Park at the corner of Heacock and Broadway.

Pittsburg, KS: Saturdays, 8 a.m.-noon, Farmer’s Market Pavilion, 119 E. 11th St. (Join us for Kids’ Day on the third Saturday each month.)

Grove, OK: Saturdays, 8 a.m.-1 p.m., Community Center Lawn, 104 W. Third St.

Quapaw, OK: First and third Fridays, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., 326 Main St. Carl Junction Community Center: 303 N. Main St., 417.649.7237

First Saturday of the Month: Carl Junction Lions Breakfast: 8-11 a.m. The CJ Lions Club sponsors a monthly buffet breakfast with proceeds going to various community organizations and projects. Adults and children 11-up, $7; children ages 3-10, $3; children 3-under eat free.

Monday, Wednesday & Friday Pickleball: 6-9 p.m. Tuesday, noon-3 p.m. Thursday, and 1-4 p.m. Sunday. Yoga at 6 p.m. Tuesday.

JOPLIN, MO

Shoal Creek Conservation Education Center, 201 W. Riviera Dr. Your local connection to Missouri’s fish, forests and wildlife. Check out the native plants, landscaping and 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 a.m.-5 p.m., and Saturday, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. 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. The parking lot, grounds and trail are open seven days a week from sunrise to sunset.

Aug. 2: Nature Board Games, 10:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Registration required. Ages: Families. Cool off from the summer heat and enjoy learning about nature through board games. Why not combine two passions and join us to play nature-themed board games? Whether a beginner or avid player of tabletop games, we will have a variety of options for all skill levels and ages. Stop by the Shoal Creek Conservation

Education Center anytime during the designated hours and learn about nature through board games.

Aug. 6: Conservation in the Parks – Busy Bugs, 10:30-11:30 a.m., Mercy Park. Registration required. Recommended for ages 5-up. Crawl into the fascinating world of bugs. Join us for Busy Bugs, which is an interactive program where curious minds can explore the amazing lives of insects. See live insects up close and go on a mini bug safari. Come explore the world under your feet.

Aug. 14: Stream Fishing – Spring River, 6-7:30 p.m. Registration required. Ages: 11-up. We are blessed with so many fishing opportunities in our local streams. Here is your chance to learn about stream fishing. We will fish at La Russell Conservation Access. You will have the opportunity to fish from the bank or get into the river and wade fish. You are encouraged to bring your own fishing equipment, but we will have rods, reels and lures available for participants to use.

Aug. 15: Little Acorns – Bear Beware, 10:30-11 a.m. Registration required. Recommended for ages 3-7. Missouri is home to a growing population of black bears. Seeing these shy, curious bears in our neck of the woods is an exciting experience, but there are always things we can do to be more bear aware. Join us for Little Acorns – Bear Aware to learn all about Missouri’s largest mammals and make a craft to take home with you.

Local Color Art Gallery & Studio, 1027 S Main St. A cooperative of local artists showcasing their art in the gallery and often working in the studio at the historical Gryphon Building in downtown Joplin. We offer art classes to adults and children. Please call Local Color Art Gallery & Studio at 417.553.0835 for further inquiries.

Tuesdays: Beginner’s Watercolor Class with Barb Hicklin (ages 8+), 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Bring your own supplies. Cost $20.

Aug. 1 & 2: Glass Camp with Jane McCaulley (ages 8-12), 12:30-2:30 p.m. All supplies included. $65 for both days.

Aug. 7, 15, 21 & 29: Impasto Oil Painting Class with Tricia Courtney, 2:30-5:30 p.m. Learn the techniques and tricks of painting thick with a painting knife. Bring your own supplies (canvas board, oil paint, brushes and palette/painting knives). Cost $20.

Aug. 8: Watercolor Class with Joan Allen (ages 8+), 10 a.m.noon or 1-3 p.m. If you provide supplies, cost is $18, or all supplies included for $30.

Aug. 16: Ceramic Vase Class with April Davis Brunner (all ages), 4-6 p.m. Includes all supplies. Cost $45.

Aug. 16: Saturday Paint Class with Jesse McCormick & Margie Moss (ages 8+), 10:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Includes all supplies and an ice cream cone from Caroline’s. No experience necessary. Paint a Monet or Van Gogh, or bring a picture of what you would like to paint. Cost $30.

Aug. 16: Fused Glass Sunflower Suncatcher Class with Jane McCaulley (ages 8+), 3:30-5:30 p.m. Includes all supplies. Cost $35.

Wildcat Glades Friends Group, 201 Riviera Dr. All programs are free of charge, unless otherwise noted. Registration is requested. To register, email robin@wildcatglades.org or visit our Facebook page for online registration options. Robin Standridge, executive director, robin@ wildcatglades.org, 417.291.3156.

Varies: Wildcat Park Habitat Restoration (Check our Facebook page for the workday schedule). Join Missouri Southern State University and Kansas City University Students for a Sustainable Future, and other

community members, in removing invasive Wintercreeper to make way for native plants to reclaim their space. Native plants feed and help prevent soil erosion, thereby improving the water quality of Shoal Creek. We will meet at the old Redings Mill Bridge parking lot and then walk a short distance to the work site. Please dress for the weather and to work outside in the dirt. Protect yourself from poison ivy and the sun. We will provide gloves and water to refill your bottles.

Aug. 13 & 16: Preschool Connections. Aug. 13, 10-11 a.m. and Aug. 16, 1-2 p.m., Wildcat Glades Education Cottage. Ages 3-7, accompanied by an adult. Free to attend. This program is sponsored by Calvin Cassidy. Join us as we discover nature in our own backyard. We will have a craft and a story. To register, visit our Facebook page or email sara@ wildcatglades.org.

Aug. 16: Nature Explorers – Camping 101, 6-7 p.m., Wildcat Education Cottage. Ages 7-14. Free to attend. Embark on a learning journey with us as we uncover more secrets about nature. To register, visit our Facebook page or email sara@wildcatglades.org.

DIAMOND, MO

George Washington Carver National Monument Visitor Center Free Programs. Two miles west of Diamond, Missouri, on Highway V, one-quarter mile south on Carver Road. Visitor center and park grounds open daily, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Call 417.325.4151 or visit www.nps.gov/gwca. *Programs will be presented outside on park grounds.

Aug. 2 & 3: Film/George Washington Carver – “An Uncommon Life” (47 minutes), 1 p.m. This documentary uncovers George Washington Carver’s complexities and reveals the full impact of his life and work.

Aug. 9 & 10: Expressions of the Soul, 1 p.m. George Washington Carver was a talented artist, often inspired by the beauty of nature. This program paints a picture of Carver’s love of art.

Aug. 16 & 17: Peanut Provisions, 1 p.m. Join us for a hands-on lab and make one of George Washington Carver’s 325 peanut products: peanut milk.

Aug. 23: Storytelling Day, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Celebrate the anniversary of the founding of the National Park Service by learning about United States culture and history through storytelling.

Aug. 30 & 31: Ranger’s Choice, 1 p.m. Join a Ranger for a special topic program. Inquire for details.

LAMAR, MO

Aug. 6: Lunch & Learn: Navigating Health Insurance for Your Small Business or Farm Operation by Specialty Risk Insurance, 11:45 a.m., Thiebaud Auditorium Meeting Rooms. Free for Barton County Chamber of Commerce members. Register by calling 417.682.3595 by Aug. 4 at 5 p.m.

WEBB CITY, MO

Aug. 9: Peterson Outdoors Ministries Annual Banquet & Fundraiser, Twin Groves Event Center, 12167 State Hwy 43, Webb City. Doors open at 4 p.m., dinner at 5 p.m. Free admission, donations accepted. More information: www.petersonoutdoors.org.

PITTSBURG, KS

ArtForms Gallery Workshops, 620 N. Broadway. ArtForms Gallery is a co-op of artists offering monthly workshops ranging from acrylic painting, watercolor, glass fusing, pottery, metalsmithing, jewelry, textiles, kids’ art and more. Please call ArtForms Gallery to register for

any artist’s workshop. Refunds/Cancellations: Decisions regarding refunds and cancellations are determined by the artist leading the workshop. For more information, call 620.240.0165, check out our Facebook page at ArtFormsGallery620/ or see our website at www. artforms-gallery.com.

Every Tuesday: Art Exploration, 12:30-3:30 p.m. Free. Join Gallery Artist Pat Glick every Tuesday afternoon for a fun time working on your own project.

Aug. 9 & 10: Mosaic Glass Stepping Stone. Aug. 9, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. and Aug. 10, 1-4 p.m. Workshop fee $100, due at time of registration to reserve your seat. Class limit of 8. Ages 16-up. Artists: Brenda Hayes and Dianne Miller. Cut up glass and have some fun with Brenda and Dianne as they hold a mosaic glass stepping stone workshop. This is a two-day workshop. Day one, participants will select a glass pattern or design, learn how to cut glass and grind in the morning. After a quick lunch (bring your own), participants will glue their pieces on a 12” concrete stepping stone. The next day, it’s time to grout and maybe get a little messy. You bring your enthusiasm and an apron, and the instructors will provide the patterns, glass, tools, glue, grout and grout sealer, plus plenty of help. Participants must attend both sessions to ensure projects will be finished.

Aug. 15: Pressed Flower Frames, 5-6:30 p.m. Workshop fee $40, due at time of registration to reserve your seat. Class limit of 14. Ages 8-108. Artist: Sarah Prince. Participants will show the beauty of pressed flowers by arranging them and putting them in glass frames. You will pick out your own frames and flowers. Many shapes, sizes and colors will be available. Sarah will do an arrangement demonstration; then, you will use your creativity to make a pressed flower masterpiece. Dried pressed flowers stay colorful all year long.

Aug. 16: Shibori Tea Towels, 1-3 p.m. Workshop fee $45, due at time of registration to reserve your seat. Class limit of 12. Ages 12-up. Artist: Nicole Meyer-Foresman. Experience Shibori, an ancient Japanese dyeing process that involves folding, bunching or twisting material, binding and dunking into a vat of indigo dye. No two pieces will ever be the same. This process is lighthearted, and the results are stunning. Arashi, Kanoko, Itajime and other techniques will be demonstrated. Each participant will create three tea towels in the Shibori techniques of your choice. Anyone wanting to wear their Shibori is welcome to bring a white T-shirt to dye as well. All proceeds from this workshop will be donated to Bike MS, seeking a cure for Multiple Sclerosis. Hosted by Nicole Meyer-Foresman, member of Research Rough Riders Team for Bike MS 2025.

Aug. 23: Virgo Season Personal Artwork, noon-3 p.m. Workshop fee $40, due at time of registration to reserve your seat. Class limit of 8. Ages 16-up. Artist: Neva Rowland. It’s time for the next chapter of the Zodiac Workshop Series – Virgo. This season invites us to bring order to chaos, tune into what’s essential and refine ourselves so we can be more effective and at peace. There are two parts to this workshop. First, Neva will help participants look up their birth chart to see what other astrological luminaries are influencing the Virgo area of their chart. Then, using that information, participants will write a personal affirmation or intention that they would like to embody during Virgo Season to intuitively guide the creation of their artwork. Virgo is the practical and detail-oriented member of the Zodiac, and our artwork will feature the grounding color brown. You don’t have to be a Virgo to enjoy and learn a lot in this workshop. All signs are welcome because we all have Virgo somewhere in our birth chart.

11th ANNUAL Chamber of Commerce RODEO

11th ANNUAL Chamber of Commerce RODEO

LABOR DAY WEEKEND

LABOR DAY WEEKEND SAT- SUN / AUG. 30 & 31

SAT- SUN / AUG. 30 & 31

DENT COUNTY COMMONS - 162 County Road 2300 in Salem, MO.

DENT COUNTY COMMONS - 162 County Road 2300 in Salem, MO.

Food - Drink - Retail Vendors, Family Fun

Food - Drink - Retail Vendors, Family Fun

Activities, and a great rodeo show! Gates open at 5:30pm each night , the rodeo star ts at 7pm each night . Call 573-7 29-6900 for any questions!

Activities, and a great rodeo show! Gates open at 5:30pm each night , the rodeo starts at 7pm . 573-7 29-6900 questions!

Where it’s ‘COOL’ to be YOU!

Visit these local establishments to experience a variety of creative events and entertainment in August.

First Thursday Artwalk, in its 18th year, will happen in historic downtown venues Aug. 7, 5:30-8:30 p.m. See Facebook.com/firstthursdayartwalkjoplinmo. As you walk to inside venues to enjoy the free arts event, listen to the music!

Third Thursday, a free family-friendly street festival on Main Street in downtown Joplin is in its 18th season. The August event is Aug. 21 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.

ART EXHIBITS, THEATER AND MUSIC

Cornell Complex, 212 W. Seventh St., home of Connect2Culture and Spiva Center for the Arts. Get tickets/information by calling 417.621.9824. Spiva Center for the Arts Exhibits:

• “Behind the Mask,” June 21-Aug. 9. “Behind the Mask” challenges the audience to examine how we navigate the complex relationship between our public selves and our private identities. Whether literal, metaphorical or psychological, the "mask" serves as a symbol of the roles we adopt, the facades we construct and the truth we conceal.

• “Authenticity [EXE]: Between Presence and Projection, ” June 21-Aug. 9. While “Behind the Mask” deals with the various personas people inhabit as they navigate through life, “Authenticity [EXE]: Between Presence and Projection” deals with how the digital world impacts identity. What the ramifications are of living in the virtual world instead of the real world. How “experience blockers” affect our mental health, especially children. This exhibit is about digital identity, virtual spaces and mental health; the key goal is to engage visitors in experiences that allow them to interact with the concepts in a fun way while prompting them to reflect on their own relationship with the digital world.

• “Jeffrey C. Legg: Alchemy of Light & Shadow,” Aug. 23-Oct. 25. Internationally award-winning painter was born in Joplin, moved away and is now back for his first solo exhibition. His compelling body of work explores the emotional and perceptual interplay between light and shadow, inviting viewers to reflect on the unseen forces that shape what and how we see.

• Watercolor USA 2025, Aug. 23-Oct. 11. A celebration of difficult artistry by the best in the area. This is a national competitive exhibition sponsored by Spiva Center for the Arts, continuing a tradition established by the Springfield Art Museum, Springfield, Missouri, since 1962. The primary purpose of the exhibition is to recognize and encourage excellence in watercolor and water media painting. This will be a juried exhibition, and the work selected will be on display with numerous cash prizes awarded.

Spiva Center for the Arts Art Classes:

• Studio 55: Open Studio 2-4 p.m. Fridays. An art class for adults over 55 taught by Jesse McCormick. For like-minded artists who are beginners or advanced and in between! Suggested $10 donation at welcome desk. Supplies and mediums available to start a project or bring your project.

• Mini-Makers: 10:15-11 a.m. Wednesdays. Your 2-5-year-old little ones’ weekly art class with adult guidance. New themes, hands-on activities.

• Creative Station: 4-5:15 p.m. Tuesdays. Come and go art activities. Contact Des Hernandez at dhernandez@SpivaArt.org.

Local Color Art Gallery, 1027 S. Main St.:

• Several days a week, one of their 17 artists is teaching a class, such as working with glass, making chimes, painting in oil or with a palette knife. Also, there is a Saturday paint class taught each week by gallery artists from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Walk-in or RSVP for guidelines on classes. Contact 417.553.0835 to sign up!

Urban Art Gallery, 511 S. Main St.:

• Painter Sydney Byers in her first solo show. See her work “Feathers & Florals,” and meet her at her reception Aug. 7, 5:30-8:30 p.m.

• Mondays, 6-8 p.m. are adult (18-plus) paint nights. Call 417.438.5931 to sign up. All supplies are included for $25 for an 8 x 10 painting you take home. Instructor is Stacy Heydt. Fun and learn! Remember Earth is EH without ART!

BAR AND RESTAURANT OFFERINGS

Blackthorn Pizza and Pub, 510 S. Joplin Ave.:

Aug. 9, 9 p.m.: Legacy of Music presents Gravehuffer, Rage is My Rival, and Decrepit Kingdom (psychedelic, heavy metal monster music).

Brew Pub & Parlour, 817 S. Main St.: Savagio karaoke every Tuesday and Thursday 8 p.m.-midnight.

Chaos Brewing Company, 112 S. Main St.: Aug. 2, 6 p.m.: Speed Friending: Free, casual, easy going. Wednesdays are trivia nights, 6:45-9:45 p.m., free. Teams up to 8 people. Get free beer and bragging rights!

Club 609, 609 S. Main St., presents Sydney Amato showing her abstract paintings “Sydney’s Prophetic Art” during August. The paintings were created out of her relationship with God and are available for a donation. Sydney’s reception is Aug. 7, 5:30-8:30 p.m.

Joplin Avenue Coffee Company, 506 S. Joplin Ave., presents 10 Four State Photography Enthusiasts members’ photographs. Some of the photographers will be on site with their works during ArtWalk Aug. 7, 5:30-8:30 p.m. Also, that evening in the back room at the same time will be an artisan market and music on stage by Eric and Erica French.

SP TLIGHT on Carthage

Get ready, Carthage—it’s time to shop, play and eat local as we say goodbye to summer in the best way possible! The Carthage Chamber of Commerce and Vision Carthage have teamed up to bring the community a fun-filled Back to School End of Summer Sidewalk Sale happening Aug. 8 & 9. This two-day event is your chance to snag unbeatable deals and steals from merchants all over town. Whether you're looking for last-minute summer finds, fresh fall fashion or school supplies for the kiddos, you’ll find it all right here in Carthage, Missouri. Make a day of it—grab a bite at one of our delicious local restaurants, treat yourself to something sweet and discover why shopping local is the best way to wrap up your summer. A full list of participating merchants and deals can be found at www.carthagechamber.com.

The fun doesn’t stop there! The Chamber is gearing up for two of its signature networking events:

• EmPOWERing Women in Business Luncheon: Happening Aug. 13, this uplifting event celebrates and supports the bold and brilliant women in our local business community.

• M.E.N. Leadership Breakfast: Set for Aug. 28, this morning gathering brings together male leaders and professionals for connection, inspiration and leadership growth. Both events are open to the public, and registration details are available on the Chamber website.

The Carthage Chamber is excited to offer a hands-on AI for Business class called How to Use AI Without Sounding Like A Robot, designed to help local businesses harness the power of artificial intelligence to boost efficiency, creativity and growth. Led by local professional Andy Neher, this informative breakfast session will take place Thursday, Sept. 11, at 8:30 a.m. in the CWEP Community Room, located at 627 W. Centennial. Andy will provide many tips on how to build your brand’s voice online. Whether you're brand new to AI or looking to refine your tools, this class will provide practical

insights and tools to give your business a smart advantage in today's digital landscape. Tickets are on sale now on the Chamber’s website.

Looking ahead, excitement is already building for the 59th Annual Maple Leaf Festival®! Vendor applications are officially open for arts, crafts and homemade items. With over 70,000 visitors expected Oct. 18, this is a golden opportunity to showcase your business in one of Missouri’s most beloved fall festivals. Want to be a part of something even bigger? Parade applications are NOW OPEN! These spots will fill up fast so don’t delay! Get your application to participate in before they close Sept. 26. Sign up today at www.carthagechamber.com.

Chamber Member Spotlight: Precious Moments

Don’t forget to plan a visit to our Chamber Member of the Month—Precious Moments

This world-renowned attraction is right here in Carthage and is more than just a destination— it’s an experience! Stroll through the beautiful gardens, take in the stunning chapel and stop by the gift shop where you’ll find heartfelt keepsakes, unique gifts and collectibles perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a longtime fan or visiting for the first time, Precious Moments is a must-see gem in our community. Make this August one to remember—shop local, get involved and celebrate all the amazing things happening in Carthage! For more information or how you can be a part of the Carthage Chamber of Commerce, visit our website or call us at 417.358.2373.

Zucchini Pasta with Ricotta Turkey Meatballs

By Kristi Spencer

Looking for a summer dinner that’s light, satisfying and doesn’t keep you in the kitchen all night? This recipe checks all the boxes. The zucchini pasta gets its flavor from simple, fresh ingredients like garlic, lemon and herbs. When you add the tender ricotta turkey meatballs, it’s a fantastic meal. You can opt for half zoodles and half spaghetti, or stick with just the zucchini noodles. That’s usually what I do. It’s easy, adaptable and a perfect way to use up that extra garden zucchini.

FOR THE ZUCCHINI PASTA:

+ 2 pounds zucchini (about 4 medium)

+ 3 tablespoons olive oil

+ 2 shallots, chopped

+ 1 teaspoon salt

+ Pinch of red pepper flakes

+ Black pepper to taste

+ 4 garlic cloves, grated

+ 8 ounces spaghetti (optional)

+ ⅓ cup grated Parmesan, plus more for topping

+ 2 to 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

+ Zest of 1 lemon (save a little for garnish)

+ Chopped basil for garnish

FOR THE MEATBALLS:

+ 1 pound ground turkey

+ ½ cup ricotta cheese

+ ⅓ cup Parmesan, finely grated

+ 1 garlic clove, grated

+ ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes or black pepper

+ ½ teaspoon kosher salt

+ 1½ tablespoons oil for cooking

DIRECTIONS:

1. Prep the zucchini by making zoodles (zucchini noodles) with a spiralizer or a food processor.

2. In a medium bowl, mix the ground turkey, ricotta, Parmesan, garlic, pepper flakes and salt. With oiled hands, shape into 12 meatballs (about 2 tablespoons each).

3. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the meatballs for 4 to 6 minutes per side, until browned on the outside. Set them aside on a plate—they’ll finish heating later.

4. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil for your spaghetti, if using.

5. Add a little more oil, if needed, to the pan used for the meatballs (no need to clean it). Sauté the shallots and zucchini, add salt, pepper and red pepper flakes. Cook for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture cooks down and looks jammy. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.

6. While the zucchini cooks, boil the pasta until al dente, if using. Reserve about ½ cup of the cooking water. Transfer the pasta to the skillet and toss with the remaining Parmesan, adding a bit of the reserved water to loosen the sauce if needed. If you're skipping the pasta, a splash of chicken broth works just as well.

7. Add lemon juice and zest, then taste and adjust seasoning.

8. Nestle the meatballs back into the skillet and simmer until they’re warmed through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

9. Top with fresh basil, a little extra lemon zest and more cheese if you’d like.

By Kristi Spencer

The first thing you’ll notice when you pull up to Smokey Racks is the smell. That unmistakable wood-fire smoker scent drifts from out back to say hello before you even walk through the door.

Smokey Racks is known for its generous portions, deep smoky flavor and small-town charm. The smoker runs all day, filling the menu with brisket, pulled pork, meatloaf, hot links, turkey and ham. These meats are served alongside a long list of hearty sides, including scalloped potatoes, baked beans, and mac and cheese.

“We smoke all of it,” says owner Celeste Baker. “Everything gets done with the smoker. That’s something that everybody’s surprised about.”

There’s no stove or oven in the kitchen, which means every hot dish and baked dessert is done by the smoker. The blackberry cobbler, served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, is one of many smoky sweets on the menu, alongside cinnamon rolls and brownies.

Thursdays are all about the loaded spud, a holdover from the restaurant’s early days. Celeste recommends topping it with ranch, and she is absolutely right. The cool tang of the dressing paired perfectly with the pulled pork and house barbecue sauce.

Each month features a special, and there are daily specials available as well. During my visit, I sampled the club sandwich, stacked high with smoked ham, turkey,

TASTES of the 4-STATES

Smokey Racks BBQ

peppered bacon, cheddar and Swiss. It was paired with a crisp coleslaw, making for a fresh and cool summer lunch. Celeste also recently added a fresh salad option to the menu, something lighter that customers are loving.

We also tried the smoked meatloaf dinner with scalloped potatoes and baked beans. The meatloaf was a personal favorite. It was tender, seasoned just right and smoky without being overpowering.

The smoker itself requires constant attention. “It can get up to 140 degrees in the summer,” Celeste shares. “It takes work to keep it going, but it’s worth it.”

Celeste draws inspiration for her monthly specials from food trends, cooking shows and the occasional craving. Over the years, she and her team have catered events big and small. They recommend calling ahead for larger orders. Celeste is quick to say the best part of the job is the people. “I love getting to talk and visit with customers. Some even ask me for barbecue tips, which I think is pretty fun.”

Smokey Racks is open Tuesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Whether you’re grabbing takeout or sitting down to eat, Smokey Racks makes sure everyone feels like family, and there’s always room for one more at the table.

Havana Nights Barton County Community Foundation hosted its 2025 fundraiser, Havana Nights, June 21 in Lamar, Missouri, to mark its 10th anniversary of enhancing the quality of life in Barton County through resource development, community grantmaking, collaboration and public leadership. Guests enjoyed Latin-inspired food and drinks, live music and beautiful dancing.

7.

1. Heidi Johnson and Cindy McFadden

2. Brian and Melissa Little

3. Curt and Susan Roland

4. Dancers Brooke and Carter Smith entertain the audience

5. Ronny Clark and Charles Curless

6. Kami Frieden and Patrick Smart

Beau and Rosie Hubbard

8. JoMO Jazz Band

9. The Macarena always gets the crowd on its feet On the Left: Dancers Brooke and Carter Smith

SHOW ME Dining Guide

Casa Montez

The team at Casa Montez is serving up all of your favorite recipes 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. Call ahead for your to-go order and conveniently pick up at the walk-up window. $-$$

Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 11 a.m.-8 p.m.

Voted Four States Finest BBQ in 2023 and 2024, Smokey Racks BBQ is your go-to for the best in smoked meats, including pulled pork, brisket, chicken and ribs. We also offer loaded spuds, sandwiches and nachos, along with mouth-watering daily specials. Let us cater your next event and make it unforgettable. Come taste the best at Smokey Racks BBQ! $$$ Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Club 609

Club 609 has been serving Joplin and the surrounding area since September 1990 with the widest variety menu in the area. We offer dinner entrees including steaks, chicken, salmon, tuna, pastas and so much more. Plus, we now offer weekly Butchers Choice and Fresh Catch specials and the appetizer of the week. There’s always something new and exciting on the menu! As always, we’re open for lunch with salads, burgers, sandwiches and over three dozen appetizers featuring 609’s unique pizzas, dips, nachos and countless more. Owned/operated by Linda Williams. $-$$$

Hours: Kitchen open Monday-Thursday 11 a.m.- 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday 11 a.m.-10 p.m. • Call 417.623.6090 for reservations

Arcos

S. Garrison Ave. • Carthage, MO

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 two for $5 margaritas? Mis Arcos is the home of great food, fun times and lots of laughs! $-$$ Hours: Mon-Wed, 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Fri, 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m.; Sat/Sun 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

Southeast Kansas

Red Onion Espressoria – Galena

1619 K 66 • Galena, KS • 620.783.1748

Your go-to spot for breakfast, lunch and dinner! We’ve got something delicious waiting for you. Serving up fresh, satisfying meals all day long in a warm, fast-casual setting. Whether you're dining in or grabbing it to go, Red Onion is here to serve you something worth coming back for. Hours: Monday through Friday 7 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Saturday 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Route 66 Visitors Center

• www.baxterspringsmuseum.org

The Kansas Route 66 Visitors Center is in a restored 1930 Phillips service station. It was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2003. Operated by the Baxter Springs Historical Society, the center welcomes travelers with period furnishings and artifacts. Visitors will find extensive literature, maps and souvenirs related to the “Mother Road.” Open 10 a.m.-4 p.m. daily April through November as volunteer staff is available. Visit us on Facebook.

The Baxter Springs Museum is filled with exhibits representing the various stages of the city’s history from Native Americans, the Civil War, the Exodusters, early cow town, Tri-State mining, baseball, 20th century military, Route 66, member of the African American Trail and more. Enjoy 20,000 square feet of climate-controlled exhibits and free admission. Visit us on Facebook. Open 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday and 1-4 p.m. Sunday. Preserving and presenting the history of Baxter Springs and Cherokee County, Kansas!

Whatever it is you are craving, Sonic® has got you covered. Stop in at our Baxter Springs location and enjoy the endless possibilities of delicious food. We serve our entire menu, made-to-order, all day, every day. Half-price drink specials 2-4 p.m., and drinks are halfprice in the app all day long.

Chamber of Commerce

Columbus Hot Air Balloon Regatta/Columbus Day Festival to be held Oct. 10-12, 2025. Balloon glow, three hare and hound races, 20 balloons from Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Texas and Kansas. On Saturday enjoy activities on the historic downtown square: car show, entertainment, quilts, crafts, antique tractors. Call 620.429.1492 or visit www.columbusdayballoons.com.

ArtForms Gallery LLC 620 N. Broadway • Pittsburg 620.240.0165 • www.artforms-gallery.com

Celebrating its ninth anniversary in downtown Pittsburg this year, ArtForms Gallery is an artists’ cooperative gallery. It features highquality handmade arts and fine crafts from some of the region’s most talented artists. Original works in painting, sculpture, photography, ceramics, jewelry, glass, wood, fiber and mixed media are for sale in a friendly and welcoming atmosphere. ArtForms also offers monthly workshops led by its member artists. Visit their website, and join their mailing list to receive the monthly schedule via email. Or, follow them on Facebook or Instagram to see what exciting things are happening at ArtForms Gallery!

Centennial Roots Homestead is where timeless homesteading skills meet hands-on learning. Through engaging workshops and educational experiences, we help others reconnect with their roots— whether it's baking from scratch, preserving food or raising backyard animals. The on-site greenhouse and nursery offer seasonal plants and garden starts, making it easy to grow your own. Visit us soon and cultivate a more intentional, sustainable way of living—one skill at a time.

By Kristi Spencer

Little Balkans Quilt Guild Edge

Mary Ann Wilson, Debbie Hurt Walker and Sherry Jagels have been part of the Little Balkans Quilt Guild for decades. They recently sat down to share how the group began, what keeps them involved and why quilting means so much to their members.

In 1990, Joyce Bardeen and Janis Ward moved to Pittsburg, Kansas, and immediately noticed something was missing.

“They had been active in quilt guilds where they lived and when they came to Pittsburg, they found we didn't have a quilt guild,” said Mary Ann. “And they thought it was almost a sin not to have a quilt guild, so they joined forces and organized it.”

Their love of quilting sparked a movement that continues to grow 35 years later.

Today, the Little Balkans Quilt Guild is a creative community that gathers monthly, hosts educational programs and showcases remarkable work that blends tradition, talent and fellowship.

The Guild’s biggest moment each year is its annual quilt show during the Little Balkans Days Festival. It’s a popular attraction that draws hundreds of visitors. The 2025 show will take place the Friday and Saturday of Labor Day

weekend, with an entry day Aug. 23. The fee to display a quilt or quilted item is $5 per item and anyone can participate. Visitors must purchase a $5 event passport to attend, which includes access to the show.

Quilted pieces in the show must be new to the event. Once it has been shown, it can’t be entered again. “It's like a brandnew show every year,” said Debbie. The show includes 175 to 200 quilted entries.

Items include wall hangings, bags, clothing and traditional quilts. But it’s not just a show, it’s a competition. A certified judge will look at the items and a panel of celebrity judges is asked to pick their favorites.

Guild members create a donation quilt that becomes the centerpiece of the opportunity ticket drawing. A chairperson selects the pattern, the board approves it and then it’s divided into kits for members to complete together. The finished quilt is displayed at the show and awarded to one lucky winner on the final day. The funds raised go into the Guild’s general fund, which helps support educational programs throughout the year.

In addition to the drawing, the show also features a boutique where members sell handmade items, including potholders, pincushions and table runners. Another highlight is the popular basket walk, where themed gift baskets created and donated by Guild members go up for a raffle.

Pulling off a show this size is a full guild effort. “It takes all of us,” said Debbie. “I'd say 75-plus, probably, to do all the jobs. That week is just dedicated to the quilt show.”

The show is just one piece of the guild’s busy calendar. Members meet monthly and gather twice a month for “sew days” to work together and build relationships.

“I enjoy the programs and the meetings, but I think the sew days are just as important because it's a fellowship,” said Mary Ann. “You get to know your members better. You glean from their knowledge.”

Proceeds from the show help bring in speakers and support hands-on workshops.

“At our meetings, we always have a program,” said Sherry. “We had a speaker talk about machine maintenance and some who brought trunk shows.”

The guild members also use their talents to support others. One of their projects is the Quilts of Honor program for veterans. In November, they invite veterans to a monthly meeting, where they share their stories and they are then presented with a quilt. Last year, they gave out 13 quilts.

They also donate community quilts to those affected by fire or disaster and make doll quilts for Toys for Tots.

“If they have a disaster or a fire, we provide a quilt,” said Mary Ann. “They're anywhere from a baby size to a regular quilt.” These acts of kindness reflect the Guild’s collective heart for their community.

Another beloved tradition is the Get R Done program. Members are encouraged to finish old projects and share the stories behind them.

“I ask people to finish something they started in years past or something they bought a pattern for and never started,” said Debbie. “It’s an incentive to have people finish up.”

Stories are shared anonymously and members vote on their favorite project before the makers are revealed. Sherry remembered a story she once submitted, where she joked that if her husband asked her one more time when she was going to finish a piece, she'd sew his lips shut "with a pretty blue thread that matched his eyes," she added with a laugh.

Membership currently stands at around 70 to 75, with ages ranging from 30 to well into the 90s. Debbie joined the Guild alongside her mother and the two often work on quilts together.

“When people join the guild, they usually want to learn,” said Debbie. “They’ll say, ‘My mother or grandmother quilted and I never got a chance to learn.’”

For members like Sherry, quilting is more than a hobby. It’s an art form and a way to preserve memories, not just a way to keep warm. “People think, ‘Why would I pay $400 for a quilt when I can get one at a store for $50?’” said Sherry. “But there’s so much time, effort and skill that goes into every piece.”

“Most of the time, I see things on Facebook or Pinterest or I’ll be at a quilt show and see a pattern I love,” said Sherry. “You just never know when inspiration is going to strike.”

The trio's favorite memories include bus trips and quilting adventures, themed luncheons and being there for one another through life’s ups and downs.

“We laugh, sometimes we cry,” said Mary Ann. “Even though you're quilting, you get to know people’s personal lives. We have a common thread that binds us together.”

to the YEARS Cheers

Congratulations to these businesses on reaching 11, 50 and 100 years of being in business!

Wolkar Drug

1920 Military Ave. | Baxter Springs, KS | 620.856.5555

At Wolkar Drug, we’re more than just a pharmacy — we’re your neighbors, your advocates and your trusted health partners. For over five decades, from founder Eddie Wolkar to current owner Brian Caswell, our family-owned pharmacy has proudly served the community with compassion, professionalism and a deep-rooted commitment to your well-being.

What sets us apart? It’s our people. With over 100 years of combined experience, our knowledgeable and friendly team brings not only expertise but a personal touch to every prescription filled and every question answered. We believe healthcare should be personal, accessible and delivered with heart — and that’s exactly what we provide.

We’re also passionate about giving back. Whether it’s supporting local events, schools or charitable causes, Wolkar Drug is dedicated to helping our community thrive.

Come experience the difference of a pharmacy that truly cares — where service is more than a transaction, it’s a relationship.

Locally Owned, Locally Operated, Locally Loved for 50 Years.

Wolkar Drug: Caring for our community. Committed to your health.

Bicknell Family Center for the Arts

1711 S. Homer St. | Pittsburg, KS | 620.235.4536

Completed on the Pittsburg State University campus in 2014, the Bicknell Family Center for the Arts quickly became a premier destination for community members and regional visitors.

In any given week, patrons can choose from several options, from a locally produced stage comedy to a concert by a noted musician, from a cultural showcase by international students to a conversation with a nationally noted speaker.

The center hosts national tours of Broadway shows and daily serves as rehearsal space for students in music ensembles and theatrical productions. It’s common on weekends for regional dance competitions to be staged here.

The center also has served as an elegant backdrop for milestone moments: a wedding on the stage. Prom photos

on the elegant staircase. A holiday party in the expansive lobby. Director Shawna Witherspoon sums it up for patrons and performers alike: “This is where memories are made.”

LEARN MORE: Bicknellcenter.com Facebook and Instagram: bicknellcenter

Pittsburg Memorial Auditorium

503 N. Pine St. | Pittsburg, KS 620.231.7827 | www.pittsks.org

Celebrating 100 years in 2025, Memorial Auditorium in downtown Pittsburg has architecture unlike any other theater in the Four States Region.

Opened in 1925 as the Mirza Mosque Theatre, this historic theater was designed during the excavation of King Tutankhamun’s Tomb and is decorated with rare examples of Egyptian Revival Style architecture. Local, regional and touring performers continue to use its large stage for ballets, concerts, plays and other performing arts productions.

Memorial Auditorium's centennial season starts Sept. 19 with Sonidos del Corazón: Music Under the Stars, a collaboration between the PSU Music Department and Pittsburg Hispanic Banda for the Hispanic Music Festival.

On Nov. 6, Doktor Kaboom! comes to town to teach the modern scientific method to families with laughs and the unexpected.

For the performance schedule, visit www.MemorialAuditorium.org or follow them on Facebook @pittsburgmacc or on Instagram @pittsburgmacc.

Kansas 2025

Southeast

Kansas 2025

The Face of TRIPLE THREAT THREEATRICS

Triple Threat Threeatrics, founded in 2023, is Southeast Kansas’s newest hub for high-energy, professional-quality and unforgettable musical theatre, by, and for, all ages. Based in Pittsburg, the company quickly became a force in the local arts scene, bringing together talented performers, creative teams and dedicated community members. They perform throughout the community, including at the Bicknell Family Center for the Arts and Memorial Auditorium.

Triple Threat has produced "Mean Girls," "Footloose" and many more, blending Broadway-caliber storytelling with a strong commitment to accessibility and community engagement. This season, they have already produced "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat," "Newsies Jr." and "Legally Blonde The Musical." In what has become a yearly production, they will perform "The Rocky Horror Show" Oct. 1618, and "Mamma Mia" is scheduled for Feb. 19-22, 2026.

For Triple Threat's performance schedule, follow them on Facebook or on Instagram @triple_threat_threeatrics.

Pittsburg, KS

417.483.2512

The Face of PITTSBURG

THEATRE

COMMUNITY

Pittsburg Community Theatre (PCT) has produced more than 150 shows since 1979. But they do more than just entertain audiences. They also prepare the next generation of performers and technicians.

With volunteers from throughout the Four States, PCT produces three shows per year at the Memorial Auditorium in downtown Pittsburg. Plus, each summer, elementary and middle school aged kids participate in a two-week workshop and stage production. New in 2025 is a middle school and high school camp - an advanced experience designed for aspiring performers and theatre tech students. This summer they performed "Beetlejuice Jr."

PCT has already produced "Lend Me A Tenor" (pictured) and "The Producers" this year. They perform the Green Day inspired "American Idiot" Oct. 3-5 and expect to release their 2026 schedule soon.

For PCT's performance schedule visit PCTinfo.org or follow them on Facebook @pittcommtheatre or on Instagram pittcommtheatre.

503 N. Pine | Pittsburg, KS pittcommtheatre@gmail.com

The Face of LOCAL BOATING AND FISHING

Albers Marine has been in business for 39 years, having been established by Homer Albers in 1986. The company continues to operate under the leadership of Rose Ann, Glenn and a small team of dedicated staff.

Albers Marine specializes in all aspects of boating and fishing. The business offers a wide range of live bait and tackle, and name-brand boats and motors. The brands available include Nitro, Tracker, Sun Tracker, Tahoe and Mercury Outboard Motors. Albers Marine is committed to serving its customers with care while efficiently managing the busy shop with only 6-8 employees.

“We believe the best reward we can receive is the feeling of touching the lives of all the great customers we have and turning them into lifelong friends,” said Rose Ann. “We enjoy making our customers feel appreciated, valued and heard.”

Rose Ann acknowledges Albers Marine could not have achieved its success without the support of its amazing staff and is thankful for everything they do for the business and its customers.

Albers Marine also contributes to various organizations and events in the community. The business enjoys sponsoring local fishing tournaments and supporting young anglers in the area.

Quapaw Nation Museum

From now through fall, Quapaw Nation Museum is honored to share a special exhibit with visitors called Around the Shoulders: Robes, Blankets, and Shawls

The exhibit shares the story of maⁿ-iⁿ-taⁿ, which means “that which is worn around the shoulders.” Visitors can see many kinds of robes, shawls and blankets that were made or used by the Quapaw people. The exhibit includes tribal items, copies of old robes and special family pieces passed down for generations. Guests will also learn how painted robes were made, and how trade blankets and shawls were brought in and used.

905 Whitebird St., Quapaw, OK • 918.238.3157 Quapawnation.com/Museum

Monday-Thursday 8 a.m.-5 p.m. and Friday 8 a.m.-4 p.m.

By Amy Howe

TheJour neyofWill J e ttew FROM PITTSBURG TO BROADWAY

“I’m going to be in 'HAMILTON'!!! I can’t believe it—such a huge dream come true. I’ll be traveling North America and bringing this insanely awesome and legendary Broadway show to cities all over the U.S. and Canada!”

—Will Jewett

WhenWill Jewett steps on stage, there’s an undeniable energy—an ease, a joy and a commitment to storytelling that pulls the audience in. Whether he’s dancing under Broadway lights or appearing on the big screen, Will brings with him not only immense talent but also the heart of a small-town kid who never stopped chasing the next big moment.

Originally from Pittsburg, Kansas, Will’s journey from pirouetting on pieces of a retired

gym floor to performing in “Hamilton” is equal parts inspiring and humbling.

“I loved growing up in Pittsburg! It’s such a nice town and I like the vibe that the university brings as well,” he says. Both of his parents worked at Pittsburg State University, and their careers allowed him access to unique opportunities, like collegelevel dance classes while still in high school.

It was in Pittsburg that Will got his first taste of performance. At just 11 years old, he was recruited by Shelley Van Shaar at the Y Academy of Dance to join an all-boys hiphop class. He was immediately hooked.

“From there, I quickly became obsessed with the Company dancers who were doing all sorts of technical skills I had never seen. Unfazed by the fact that they were all girls, I knew I had to be a part of that company and dance at that high level.”

But it wasn’t just technical skill that lit his fire—it was the power of performance to move and connect people. That realization came during a benefit show called “push,” created by Maggie Stephens.

“This creative process showed me that dance could be more than executing technical skills and competing. Dance can—and should—tell stories and bring people together and move people. Make a lasting impact. This feeling inspired me deeply and I carry it with me still today.”

Finding Support Close to Home

Behind every successful performer is a rock-solid support system, and for Will, that began with his family.

“My parents not only supported me in trying new things, but when I got into dance, they quickly took on the roles of dance parents—accompanying me to dance competitions all around the Midwest, building stretching devices and cheering me on (and pushing me forward) through all the highs and lows.”

He also credits his dance teachers at the Y and the Pittsburg High School Theatre Program for shaping him as a multi-faceted performer. Under the guidance of educators like Greg Shaw, Susan Laushman and choreographers Maggie and Mollie Stephens, Will had the chance to dance, sing, act—and even perform alongside his sister, Sarah.

One standout moment was performing “Band Geeks” at the Kansas State Thespian Festival.

“It was the most amazing experience to do this with some of my best friends and was a moment that made me realize how much I love theatre.”

From Kansas to Broadway

Breaking into professional performance is never easy, and Will is honest about the challenges he’s faced—particularly transforming from “just a dancer” into a full-blown musical theatre performer.

“I think a lot of it had to do with confidence and imposter syndrome. Thankfully, my journey through high school theatre and then a top College Musical Theatre program allowed me to experiment and fail and truly find myself as a performer.”

That program was the BFA in Musical Theatre at Penn State University—a major turning point in his career.

“It felt like a pretty major turning point. I was really going for it and chasing the dream.

“Training there helped me book shows at Music Theatre Wichita over the summers, which connected me with amazing and inspiring artists from all over the country and creative forces straight from New York. It’s crazy how many of these connections I made while in college still enhance my career presently.”

Will has performed both onstage and on screen—two experiences that require entirely different mindsets and skillsets. His work in the “Mean Girls” movie and the Broadway National Tour of “Back to the Future: The Musical” helped him navigate both.

“Filming a movie was so much fun. It felt like a constant rehearsal,” he says of his time working on “Mean Girls.” “When filming a movie, you get a few takes of each shot, so it’s not quite as thrilling or visceral in the moment. It is fun to just play around and try a bunch of different things while filming each take, then leaving it up to the creative team to decide which option to go with. The thrill comes with not knowing which take they will choose for the final cut (or if the moment makes the movie at all).”

“It was awesome to go to the movie theater with my friends and watch the movie together. I’m not used to being an audience member of my own work!”

Live theater, however, brings a very different kind of excitement—and responsibility.

“In a live stage production, I love feeding off of the energy of the audience. There is risk involved because there’s no editing a live performance,” Will says.

“I did “Back to the Future: The Musical” for a year—eight shows a week. I felt such an evolution through finding how the show felt in my body, letting it settle in, then changing it up for fun and exploring new moments on stage. Every night was different. Now, when doing a show like this for a whole year, it is sometimes hard not to zone out or just go through the motions. I definitely had to create some techniques for myself to stay ‘in it.’ I would maybe take creative liberties (where appropriate, of course) to keep things fresh or see how many castmates I can get to laugh and break character.”

A Day in the Life

Will’s daily life shifts depending on whether he’s in a show, filming or in between gigs. When on tour, his day runs like a well-oiled night shift:

“Wake up at 11 a.m. for breakfast, workout, rest and/or explore whatever city I’m in, lunch at 5 p.m., warm up for the show, do the show, cool down and stretch, dinner at 11 p.m., then asleep by 3 a.m.”

When he’s back in New York and between jobs, things look different, but no less busy.

“I create my weekly schedule around auditions. My agents secure audition appointments for me to attend, and if I’m lucky, I have a callback to prepare for.”

Outside of auditions, he’s still hard at work— dancing, teaching fitness classes, taking voice lessons and saying ‘yes’ to all kinds of performance gigs—from “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon” to weddings that look like something out of a movie.

“These gigs range from a half-day commitment to a couple of weeks,” he explains. “It keeps life interesting.”

Staying Grounded

Despite the bright lights and big stages, Will hasn’t forgotten where he came from.

“I have such pride being from Southeast Kansas. I visit home as much as I can and I love telling people all about it and what it was like growing up in Pittsburg. People in the arts come from all sorts of unique backgrounds, so it’s honestly cool just to be a part of that in any regard.”

He often brings friends home to Pittsburg and proudly shows off his roots. His smalltown upbringing, once something he feared might set him back, has become a unique badge of honor.

What’s Next?

Will’s next chapter is already unfolding in the most exciting way possible.

“I’m going to be in 'HAMILTON'!!! I can’t believe it—such a huge dream come true. I’ll be traveling North America and bringing this insanely awesome and legendary Broadway show to cities all over the U.S. and Canada!”

He’ll be playing Charles Lee and understudying King George III.

“I love understudying ... It’s so nice to have variety in performing—most days I am dancing my butt off in the ensemble and other days I’m playing a lead and singing high notes! Keeps things exciting and keeps me challenged even over longer jobs.”

Advice for Young Dreamers

For aspiring performers in small towns, Will has simple but powerful advice: “Just start doing! Learn skills and become really good at them, but don’t leave out creativity and storytelling. Avoid overanalyzing and comparison—learn by doing and fail forward.”

And above all, believe that it’s possible. Because if a kid from Pittsburg, Kansas, can make it in the entertainment industry, anyone with enough heart and hustle just might, too.

To follow Will’s journey and learn more about his upcoming performances, follow him on Instagram @willjewett or visit www.willjewett.com.

COLLEGE-TOWNFEEL Prevalent Pittsburg in

By Kristi Spencer

Some towns have a college. Pittsburg, Kansas, is a college town.

You can see it in the Gorilla flags on front porches and the way local businesses turn red and gold every fall. You feel it when a stranger brings up Saturday’s game or when Pittsburg State football players greet kids at elementary schools on their first day. Pittsburg and Pittsburg State University share a spirit, a sense of pride and a commitment to growing stronger together.

Built Together

The story of this relationship goes back to the very beginning. At the turn of the 20th century, Pittsburg was a growing industrial town. Coal mining, brickmaking and manufacturing were booming, and the population was climbing fast. But the high school dropout rate concerned Russell S. Russ, the city’s superintendent of schools. In 1897, he introduced woodworking, followed by metalwork, cooking and sewing courses in Pittsburg’s high school to help keep students in school. These practical classes quickly caught on and created a new demand for teachers to lead them.

“Russ sensed a need for manual, hands-on courses that would reduce the number of high school students in Pittsburg who dropped out of high school before graduation,” said Andra Stefanoni, director of media relations. “The positive results attracted the attention of residents and those from surrounding communities. Other superintendents began following suit.”

Russ persuaded state and local leaders to create a school dedicated to training educators in these subjects. On Sept. 8, 1903, what would eventually become Pittsburg State University opened its doors with just 54 students. Right from the beginning, the community was behind it. They saw the school as something that could shape Pittsburg’s future.

That connection deepened in 1914 when lightning struck Russ Hall, the university’s first permanent building. It burned to the ground. But the community’s response became a defining moment. "Within hours, the community had raised the funds needed to rebuild and ensure the school’s future," said Blake Benson, president of the Pittsburg Area Chamber of Commerce “More than $100,000 in pledges came in within 36 hours. Temporary classrooms were set up downtown while construction began. Just over a year later, Russ Hall reopened, stronger than ever.

A Community That Shows Up

That kind of community support hasn’t gone away. “Pittsburg has a distinct college-town feel largely because of how deeply the university is woven into the fabric of daily life, and has been for decades,” said Stefanoni. “The campus is centrally located and accessible, not tucked away or isolated. Students, faculty, staff and visitors directly impact the local economy.”

“There’s a tight relationship between the community and campus,” said Benson. “Locals attend university

events like athletics, concerts, theater productions, job fairs, art exhibits and lectures like they’re community happenings.”

That sense of shared celebration shows up every fall with Paint the Town Red, a city-wide tradition that kicks off football season. Businesses compete in a decorating contest, children join Gus the Gorilla for a fun run and residents pour into downtown for a block party and pep rally with the Pride of the Plains Marching Band, Pitt State Cheer and Dance teams, and Gorilla athletes.

Game Days and Gatherings

“Events like Homecoming, pep rallies and seasonal festivals often center around or are hosted by Pitt State and draw big crowds from both campus and the community,” said Stefanoni. “It creates a shared rhythm for the town that echoes the university calendar.”

Homecoming is one of those events that pulls the whole town together. There’s a parade through the streets, the crowning of homecoming queen and king, and student competitions and reunions that bring back generations of Gorillas.

Football season means Gorilla Fest, a tailgating tradition where Gorilla Village fills with music, food and the buzz of students, alums and families catching up. The pre-game pep rally adds even more energy. One of the best parts is when the players make their way to Carnie Smith Stadium, walking a path lined with cheering fans. The Pride of the Plains Marching Band is a huge part of the experience as they line the walk and perform at the pep rally, along with the Pitt State Dance Team and the spirit squad.

Each year at the beginning of the fall semester, the Community Fair brings local businesses and organizations to campus to connect with students. There’s free food, giveaways and plenty of chances to learn what the community has to offer.

Local families serve as host families for international students. Churches host welcome dinners. “There’s a blurring of lines between student life and town life that has classic college-town energy,” said Stefanoni.

The connection extends to the arts. The Bicknell Family Center for the Arts draws people from all over the region for theater productions, concerts, speaker series and student showcases.

Gorillas in the Community

The support goes both ways. Pitt State students show up for the community in all kinds of ways. They organize fundraisers, read to kids on Dr. Seuss Day, volunteer with Special Olympics and help local nonprofits with projects like marketing plans. They’re not just here for a degree, they’re giving back.

“Student organizations, academic departments, student-athletes and individual students have routinely volunteered, spearheaded philanthropic efforts, and collaborated with local businesses, civic groups and residents on special projects,” said Stefanoni. “These are the things that may fly under the radar, but they make a tremendous difference to Pittsburg and to our students.”

City Wide Pride

Those connections have also shaped the city’s economy. Pittsburg State University employs more than 900 people, making it one of the largest employers in the area. Many of Pittsburg’s other major businesses, including Watco, Pitsco, Miller’s Professional Imaging and the Bicknell family of companies, were founded by people who originally came to the city to attend PSU.

That entrepreneurial spirit inspired one of the most ambitious projects in the community’s history. Block22, located at 4th and Broadway, is a mixed-use living-learning district developed in partnership by the university, the City of Pittsburg and the Vecino Group. It gave new life to four historic buildings and turned them into places where students live, businesses grow and ideas come to life.

The initiative was named one of the top university-led economic development projects in the country. And there’s still more in the works. An upcoming project called Gorilla Rising will bring the Kelce College of Business downtown and renovate the historic Besse Hotel by 2026.

Other examples of collaboration include the Music Department’s partnerships with Pittsburg High School and the Southeast Kansas Symphony’s annual Children’s Concert. The School of Construction built park shelters and walking paths for the city. The Art Department co-hosts events for high school and university students.

“We’re truly blessed to be the heart of Gorilla Nation,” said Benson. “The university brings an energy and enthusiasm to Pittsburg that is unmatched and rarely seen in non-university communities.”

From its founding in 1903, Pittsburg State University and the City of Pittsburg have grown together, leaned on each other and built something special. It is a hometown where Gorilla pride runs deep and everyone knows “Once a Gorilla, Always a Gorilla.”

SHOW ME Sports Roundup

SHOW ME SPORTS ROUNDUP

SHOW OFF your support for the upcoming football season with a paid digital media ad/ sponsorship featured on Show Me The Ozarks Magazine's social media and website platforms. Our feature includes an outlook into area football teams with an interview with the head coach.

Featured Teams:

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40 Years of Little Balkans Days 40 Years of Little Balkans Days

By Angela Meyer and Allison Riechman-Bennett

Little Balkans Days celebrates its 40th anniversary this year, taking place in Pittsburg, Kansas, from Aug. 25 to Aug. 31.

The festival will feature vibrant cultural heritage, including food, fine arts and crafts, a car show, dog show, cooking school and music throughout the weekend. The event marks a long-held tradition, tracing back to its immigrant heritage. In Pittsburg, heritage isn’t just history during this weekend, but something you can taste, hear and enjoy with your entire family.

Little Balkans Days is rooted in the immigrant communities of people from the Balkan Peninsula in Europe. The festival is a testament and tribute to the traditions and culture that shaped Southeast Kansas. Immigrants from Croatia, Serbia, Slovenia and other Balkan countries moved to the area for coal mining jobs in the late 1800s and early 1900s, thus establishing towns such as Frontenac and Arma, which was originally known as Rust. When the festival began in 1985, organizers emphasized and celebrated the ethnic heritage, folk traditions, music, dancing, homemade foods and traditional craft, which is still the focus today.

Angela Meyer, the festival president for the past 11 years, grew up going to Little Balkans Days. She reflected on her time as a child attending the festival and noted the ties to Southeast Kansas history, which drew her into the magic of the festival.

“This festival truly makes me stop and celebrate the community I was raised in and really makes me appreciate the community that raised and encouraged me,” Angela said. “It helps me remember our past and heritage and celebrate who we are as a community today. I’m so proud to be from this community.”

The festival kicks off Monday, Aug. 25, with the Little Balkans Cooking School and continues into the Labor Day weekend. Special events can only be attended with the purchase of a passport, which is $5. These special events include, but are not limited to, the cooking school, Quilt Guild sewing class, quilt show, pasta class, car show, chicken dinner and polka dance, Cox Community Concert and many more you can find listed on their website.

Passports are sold at TOAST, Ron’s Supermarket, Pittsburg Area Chamber of Commerce and Pittsburg Memorial Auditorium.

One-hour scenic train rides are available Saturday, Aug. 30, but seating is limited. Train tickets are $5 per person and train rides run at 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. Full details are available on the festival website.

To sign up for events and to purchase train tickets and passports, visit www. littlebalkansfestival.com for all of your festival needs. And be sure to follow Little Balkans Days on Facebook to stay up to date on all the festival events.

Come experience living history Aug. 25-31!

Bringing Heritage, Community & Books Together

By Jaiden Dorris

SethNutt is the director of the Frontenac, Kansas, Public Library and Heritage Hall Museum. In late 2019, the City of Frontenac was notified the city was the beneficiary of the Tavella family estate. Richard and Jeanette (Guerrero) Tavella made their life in Kansas City but remained tied to their roots in Southeast Kansas. Jeanette, a 1955 graduate of Frontenac High School, and Richard, a 1956 graduate of Pittsburg High School, left their estate to the city and dedicated their money to building a public library. This will be the first public library within Frontenac.

The City of Frontenac gratefully acknowledges Richard and Jeanette Tavella for their overwhelming generosity in establishing the Frontenac Public Library. This gift will serve Frontenac by providing access to information and resources, supporting literacy and education, promoting lifelong learning, and serving as a community gathering space for generations to come.

The city moved forward with plans for the new library by hiring a library director in October 2022.

Building a library from the ground up has been a challenging but rewarding task.

“One of the most enjoyable things about my job is that we have been able to use my creativity to design a beautiful, welcoming library and museum that will serve the community and beautify our downtown,” says Library Director Seth Nutt.

There was a lot of detail that went into building the library from the ground up. Seth has woven the town’s history throughout the building with large wall photos from Frontenac’s coal mining days. The Heritage Hall Museum takes the viewer back to the turn of the century when coal was king and immigrants from Europe settled the town of Frontenac in hopes of finding the American dream.

As people browse the Heritage Hall Museum, they walk through old town of re-created storefronts and buildings of Frontenac that existed in the early years. Even though the library portion of the building will not open to the public until this fall, Seth’s team encourages visitors to the McKay Street Coffeehouse and the Heritage Hall Museum since they are open and welcoming visitors.

“We hope our building will serve as a community hub where people will use the library, meeting space, museum, coffee shop and park,” Seth says. The community is extremely excited about the library and has been supportive of the project from the outset.

A lot of people enjoyed watching the progress with both the building and the library greenspace called Miners Park, which provides visitors a beautiful outdoor space to enjoy, complete with a bronze coal miner bust, a tribute to the Frontenac Coal Mine Explosion of 1888, as well as a fountain.

The part Seth loves the most about his job is welcoming people into the space and watching the community come together.

Seth says, “We look forward to welcoming you to the library and Heritage Hall Museum!”

The library’s website is Frontenacpl.org and the library is also on Facebook.

Real Life, Real Possibilities and a lifetime of Friendship at Mosaic

By Allison Riechman-Bennett

Mosaic is a community-focused organization located in Pittsburg, Kansas, that provides essential services to those with intellectual and developmental disabilities, autism and seniors in need of everyday supportive care. Mosaic’s mission is meeting clients where they’re at and empowering people to live as independently and meaningfully as possible.

Through their core values, Mosaic staff instills the importance of independence and community through their work with their clients, most often adults with Down syndrome and a variety of other developmental disabilities, as well as children for whom they provide case work. In addition to the work to become more independent with the assistance from Mosaic staff, the friendship that two Mosaic clients, Bootsie and Terri, found in each other helps a little, too.

Bootsie and Terri are BFFs. That’s exactly what anyone who works at Mosaic will tell you. Bootsie was already a resident working with Mosaic when Terri transitioned from living at home into the group home. The two immediately hit it off. They call each other their “cupcake,” and they’ve spent very little time apart since first meeting each other.

Julia Wallen is the program supervisor for Mosaic at Home, the program that provides everyday care for clients in their homes and became familiar with Bootsie and Terri.

“They are always hand and hand and attached by the hip,” Julia says. “Right when I stepped foot into the program, I got to know who Bootsie and Terri are from other Mosaic personnel, and their peers rave about their friendship, their dreams and all of the stories those ladies have shared.

“Right when I stepped foot into the program, I got to know who Bootsie and Terri are from other Mosaic personnel, and their peers rave about their friendship, their dreams and all of the stories those ladies have shared."

—Julia Wallen

“When Bootsie and Terri were moving out of the group home into shared living, it was non-negotiable to keep them together. They were not going to move into separate homes, and Tammy, their former staff, was chosen by them. In their new home, they wanted to choose all the decor in the house, what their bedrooms would look like, what pet fish they wanted and all of the activities they would undertake.”

Julia worked closely with Bootsie, Terri and Tammy in their transition into their shared home. When they completed their move, Julia and Tammy continued to work with them to help them live their best possible lives.

Mosaic offers a variety of 24/7 support for those with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Bootsie and Terri met when they both sought support through Mosaic’s Group Setting. Three or more residents live in a shared setting where support staff, someone like Tammy, for example, is present 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to help residents in skill building. They work one-on-one and in a group to reinforce life skills through activities they would come into contact daily.

Supported living is also a 24/7 service, but it allows residents the option to live on their own rather than in a group setting. They can live independently, but residing with family is also possible, all with constant access to either in-person or virtual assistance provided by Mosaic support staff.

Mosaic at Home is a combination of the group setting and supported living model. Bootsie and Terri found that this support allowed them the community they needed and the support system they wanted through Tammy and each other. Their living space offers more personalized care with that 24-hour care system.

Tammy provides support to Bootsie and Terri, all while also meeting Mosaic’s high standard for caretakers. Caretakers are provided training to meet the Mosiac standard, certified in CPR and medication administration, and are directly connected with the network of staff and administration in Mosaic.

Since moving into their home together through the Mosaic at Home program, Julia has noticed some amazing progress in both Bootsie and Terri.

“Because I have heard so much about Bootsie and Terri, sparking up a conversation with them was inviting,” Julia says. “You will always hear them asking if each other is okay, if they want to eat lunch or approach a new crowd together. I firmly believe that since living in shared living, their friendship continues to grow due to that family atmosphere the program provides. One thing that has changed, with Bootsie

aging, Terri has become very protective. I have heard Terri offer Bootsie to sit down to take a break, help her out of the vehicle and assist her with walking farther distances. Something that will never change is Bootsie and Terri always involving one another and genuinely looking out for each other.”

That in-home support and emphasis on community is something that is rare in most long-term care facilities. The friendship that Bootsie and Terri share? Even rarer!

Once they moved in together, Bootsie and Terri started dreaming together. They began to save money for dream trips to places like the Butterfly Palace in Branson and Walt Disney World in Florida, and have traveled together across the United States several times.

“Bootsie and Terri love traveling together and experiencing new things,” Julia continues. “Whether that's going to Florida or taking a weekend trip to Branson, those ladies are on the go and stay curious. If you ask Bootsie and Terri their favorite memory together, they will talk about their trip to Texas to see the John Wayne Museum or their recent trip to the butterfly house. I believe they both cherish all the memories together and appreciate Mosaic for helping them stay together for 15-plus years.”

Mosaic is located in downtown Pittsburg and is available to you or a loved one seeking assistance with daily living, counseling services, elder care or simply more connection within the community.

If you or a loved one could benefit from Mosaic’s services, do not hesitate to reach out to 620.231.5590 or in person at 113 N. Broadway St., Ste A., in Pittsburg. Mosaic also welcomes volunteers for those who are interested in making lasting connections with residents.

Volunteering options can include developing skills with residents, fundraising, and even fun social events and outings with residents. The same contact information applies; just call Pittsburg’s Mosiac location today. You might even make a BFF along the way!

ENTREPRENEURIAL SPIRIT BREATHES LIFE INTO Historic Pittsburg Landmark

The entrepreneurial husband and wife team of Josh and Shawnee Lorenz, owners of Lorenz Haus Development, LLC, understand how important it is to preserve history.

By Don Lowe

Over the last 4 years, the Lorenzes have completed three historic renovations in downtown Pittsburg, Kansas, with the most recent being the adaptable reuse of 211 N. Broadway, also known as the Historic Biles Brothers Building (as listed on the Kansas Register of Historic Places).

211 N. Broadway Fast Facts

What: A historic row building transformed into a small business incubator in historic downtown Pittsburg, KS.

Where: 211 N. Broadway, Pittsburg, KS

Who: Josh and Shawnee Lorenz, owners of Lorenz Haus Development, LLC

Phone Number: 620.670.3675

Social Media: www.facebook.com/ profile.php?id=61575606391794#

Core Team: Josh and Shawnee Lorenz, owners; KP Salas, operations manager; Dale Clark; hospitality manager.

Subcontractor Support: Next Generation Construction; Sewers, Drains and More Plumbing; Home & Energy Services; Evans Painting; and Carpenters Jimmy Felker and Jarod Johnston

Shawnee says, “I’m a historic preservationist at heart, but preserving these landmarks is an expensive passion. To truly save these properties, they need to be more than just beautiful. They must be innovative and sustainable. Every inch of this property needed to generate revenue to save this structure, so we spent months sketching out all the possibilities.

“Now reimagined as a multi-tenant hub for local entrepreneurs, you’ll find four unique businesses within this 125-year-old historic building and the adjoining lot, which sat vacant for more than 40 years.”

The Greenway, a family-friendly food truck court and beer garden is located outside. The Bearded Bully Barbershop, which offers a polished haircut and shave experience, and Biles Brothers Meeting House, a speakeasy with crafted cocktails in an intimate atmosphere, recently set up shop at this location.

Additionally, Miners + Monroe, which is a local menswear and lifestyle goods shop that has been serving its customers since 2018 with quality products at accessible prices, relocated to the property this past April.

“While each business stands nicely on its own, together, they form a curated experience when enjoyed together,” Shawnee says. “In one full afternoon, guests can browse thoughtfully

selected merchandise, enjoy a refined cocktail, grab a fresh cut, and unwind outdoors with live music and a rotating lineup of local food trucks.

“We developed this property to serve as a unique ‘small business ecosystem’ that allows the community to gather, spend time with family and friends, and hopefully support multiple local businesses in the process at the same time.”

The Lorenzes recognized that combining the best of the best inside and out would be a perfect match with all they envisioned, and Shawnee says, “The building’s (Biles Brothers) restored façade is beautiful but paired with the adjoining outdoor venue (The Greenway), well, we think it makes the reimagined space something pretty special.

“We’d seen this model (outdoor area surrounded by a mix of small businesses) work when we were living in Denver, Colorado. We also observed it was conducive to families. And, as parents of three young children, that resonated with us. We wanted to create a space where people from all walks of life can relax, connect and enjoy themselves.

“About 5 years ago, we tossed around the idea of opening a food truck court. But it wasn’t until this property became available that everything clicked. So, after multiple layouts and a ton of numbers crunching, we decided to go for it.”

The Lorenzes simply followed a blueprint for what people in this Southeast Kansas town wanted. Shawnee says, “A recent community survey showed that Pittsburg residents wanted more green areas and gathering spaces within the downtown corridor.

“Today’s communities need more than static parks: They’re looking for dynamic, flexible environments where people can gather, connect and enjoy experiences that evolve within the community itself. That’s why we created this space, so people can connect, relax and engage in the arts and local retail scene in one place.

“We’re incredibly grateful to see how warmly the community has embraced it. Whether you’re coming for dinner, a concert, cocktails or simply to sit under the lights with friends, there’s something for everyone, and everyone is welcome.”

There’s a lot more happening on a regular basis, and according to Shawnee, The Greenway also hosts community-centric programming like family movie nights, fitness classes, seasonal photoshoots and more, along with a weekly food truck and live music rotation.

Shawnee offered greater insight on the Biles Brothers Meeting House, saying, “Tucked back by the alley, you’ll find a little hidden gem: A cozy speakeasy that’s really making waves. Designed to accommodate about 30 guests at a time, this antique-filled speakeasy is the perfect place for a lingering conversation or a quiet celebration and is a welcome escape from the ordinary.

“You won’t find TVs, Jell-O shots or party crowds at Biles Brothers. Instead, you’ll find 150-year-old books, dim lighting and an extensive selection of craft cocktails you won’t find anywhere else. Small plates are also available, thanks to a collaboration with beloved local butchery, The Meat Shed.”

Describing the Biles Brothers mood in more detail, KP Salas, operations manager and bartender extraordinaire, says, “Recently, a gentleman read quietly in an armchair with an Old Fashioned in hand for nearly two hours. Nearby, friends toasted a 40-year anniversary, while a group of young professionals mapped out a startup idea. All these experiences pair perfectly with focused attention - and an exceptional cocktail.”

Overhead, on the second floor, there is an Airbnb available for both lodging and special event use.

“Featuring a stylish, two-bedroom, two-bath unit with a generous entertaining area, this space is perfect for morning-of wedding preparations, family gatherings and cocktail parties, or just a fun weekend in Pittsburg,” Shawnee says.

When designing the loft, Shawnee says her aim was simply to “create a metropolitan aesthetic that helps guests reimagine what smalltown Kansas has to offer. That was my goal for the entire project.”

Once everything at 211 N. Broadway is up and operational, Shawnee plans to shift her focus back to rural innovation and preservation work, her true passion.

“All across Kansas, rural communities are quietly losing pieces of their architectural heritage,” she says. “So many of our hometowns’ historic cornerstones are falling to ruin, all too often because people can only imagine them being used as they always have been. We need to change that. Fast.

“I’m looking forward to helping other communities and small businesses take on revitalization efforts like this. Together, we can breathe new life into Kansas’ historic buildings by preserving their character and reimagining their purpose at the same time. Together, we create vibrant, enduring spaces for generations to come, across the heartland.”

The Lorenzes have reason to be proud of what they’ve accomplished, and Shawnee says, “One of the most poignant moments of this entire journey was pressing our children’s handprints, tiny fingers and all, including our six-week-old daughter, into the concrete at the entrance of the property.

“This project brought countless challenges to our family—logistical, emotional and physical—all during a time of economic uncertainty. There were moments we seriously considered walking away. But, what’s most important to us, and we wanted to model that example for our children, is that even when times are tough, you stand firm in what you believe can and should be done.”

This entire experience will be a teaching tool for the Lorenz kids, and Shawnee says, “My hope is that when our children are older and we share the story of what it took to bring this place to life, they’ll carry this lesson with them: If you have a dream, lean into it. The path won’t be easy, but the most meaningful things rarely are easy.”

Community in Southeast Kansas Celebrating

By Amy Howe

From time-honored tradi-

tions to festive firsts, Southeast Kansas knows how to throw a celebration. As summer winds down and fall edges in, towns across the SEK region come alive with parades, food, music, rodeos, fairs and family fun. Whether you're cheering on mutton busters in Girard, enjoying Italian classics in Frontenac, dancing in the streets of Arma or joining in the nostalgia of Weir and Arcadia, there's an event for everyone just a short drive away.

These festivals aren’t just about entertainment— they’re a vibrant reflection of the people and pride that make this region special. So, mark your calendars, bring your neighbors and get ready to explore the heart of Southeast Kansas one celebration at a time.

Crawford County Fair

Kick off late summer with Southeast Kansas’s beloved Crawford County Fair, a four-

day celebration showcasing a full lineup of livestock exhibits, 4-H projects, bounce houses and live music. Don’t miss the Coal Miners Rodeo, Bulls & Barrels, Demolition Derby and so much more! Held at the Crawford County Fairgrounds, this event combines rural tradition with fantastic family fun.

Crawford County Fairgrounds, 249 E. Hwy 47 (Hwy 47 & 2349 E), Girard, KS

July 30-Aug. 2, 2025

Arma VJ Homecoming

The Arma VJ Homecoming is the longest continuous festival in the U.S. celebrating the end of World War II—founded by returning veterans in 1947. Held each year in Arma, this beloved hometown tradition blends remembrance with community fun. Highlights include an all-ages street dance, 5K run for our veterans, car show, baby contest, giant inflatables carnival, children’s parade, kid’s fishing derby, a balloon artist, motorcycle show, pickleball tournament, live music and so much more! It’s a one-of-a-kind celebration of history, pride and Southeast Kansas spirit. Arma City Park, 251 N. 5th St, Arma, KS

Aug. 8-10, 2025

Little Balkans Days

Little Balkans Days is a cultural and community festival held annually in Pittsburg, Kansas. Designed to celebrate the region’s rich

immigrant heritage, the event offers something for everyone in the family. Across a variety of venues, attendees enjoy a colorful mix of arts and crafts vendors, cooking and pasta schools, quilt shows, photography contests, train rides, scramble golf tournaments, live music and so much more! Little Balkans Days captures the spirit of Southeast Kansas with tradition, flavor and fun.

Various locations across downtown Pittsburg (Lincoln Park, Memorial Auditorium, Meadowbrook Mall, Kansas Crossing Casino)

Aug. 25-28, 2025

90th Annual Weir Homecoming

Weir welcomes everyone to its 90th Annual Homecoming as the community steps back in time to celebrate the Sesquicentennial of Weir City. This long-standing tradition features a nostalgic parade, street games and races, a 3K race/walk and all the small-town charm you’d expect. The festivities kick off with a homecoming royalty coronation and community dinner, followed by a weekend full of family-friendly activities. It’s the perfect way to honor Weir’s rich heritage and enduring community spirit.

Weir, Kansas (events centered around Main Street and Civic Center)

Sept. 12-13, 2025

Scammon Fall Festival

Hosted by Scammon Holiness Mission, First Presbyterian Church of Scammon, and friends from the community, the Scammon Fall Festival is a heartfelt celebration of togetherness, family and fun. This free event invites everyone to enjoy an afternoon filled with entertainment, food, games, bounce houses, face painting, live music and giveaways. With plenty of activities and a welcoming small-town atmosphere, it’s a perfect way to celebrate the blessings of community.

City Park & the ‘Ole Scammon Schoolhouse grounds, Scammon, KS

Sept. 20, 2025

Festa Italiana

This lively celebration at Frontenac's Raider Sports Complex brings the community together for good food, live music and family fun—all in support of local students. Since its start in 1999, Festa Italiana has grown into a beloved fall tradition, including Italian cuisine, a silent auction ("Mario’s Market") and so much for the whole family. Come hungry for crowd favorites like cheese-stuffed manicotti, chicken and noodles, tortellini alfredo, lasagna, Italian wedding cake, baked ziti and a spread of delicious dishes too long to list! Proceeds provide vital scholarships to all graduating seniors who further their education through the Frontenac Educational Foundation—making every plate count toward education and opportunity.

Raider Sports Complex, 519 E. McKay St., Frontenac, KS

Sept. 27, 2025

By Don Lowe

Thomas Jefferson Independent Day School Surpasses 500-alumni Milestone

In4. A group of TJ alum enjoy a pick-up game of basketball at TJ's annual "Basket-Bowl" event

a little more than three decades, Thomas Jefferson Independent Day School in Joplin, Missouri, has continued steadfast in its purpose, and Director of Development & Alumni Engagement Lauden Baker says,

“In fulfillment of our mission for more than 32 years, TJIDS has stood accountable for educating students to make the most of their abilities.

“TJ’s values, as embodied in our Mission and Honor Code, is to instill in our students a desire to acquire and refine essential academic knowledge and skills, cultivate an appreciation of the arts, develop lifelong fitness skills, assume responsibility for their behavior, seek out challenge, welcome criticism, test new capacities, practice selfdiscipline and find joy in learning.”

All that TJIDS strives to do is characterized in those young men and women who received their education, and Lauden says, “It is safe to say our alumni are our ‘mission walking,’ taking the foundation they received here to go forward and become fully realized individuals, while making a positive impact across our country and the world.

“We are so proud of the character, talent and accomplishments embodied by our alumni. Surpassing the 500-alumni milestone with the Class of 2025 (this past May) feels like a special moment to reflect and celebrate this achievement.”

It’s all about remaining linked and bonded for years to come, and Lauden says, “We’re in a constant state of expanding and evaluating the best ways to stay connected to our Cavaliers. We have an Alumni Advisory Council & Steering Committee that meets multiple times each year.

“We have a slate of alumni receptions and events, including an alumni reception at our Fall Upper School Musical, where alumni get complimentary tickets; an event called Basket Bowl in the winter that includes pick-up basketball games and quiz bowl rounds; and a homecoming barbecue.”

1. Angie Scott ('05) receives the Distinguished Alumni Award at TJ's 2025 Commencement

2. TJ students excitedly cheer at a pep rally

3. TJ Facility Exterior

Thomas Jefferson Independent Day School Fast Facts

What: Celebrating 500-alumni Milestone

Physical Address: 3401 Newman Rd., Joplin, MO

Phone Number: 417.781.5124

Website: https://www.tjeffschool.org/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TJIDS

Twitter (X): https://x.com/tjids

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tjids/

It’s a lifetime connection, and Lauden says, “Last school year, we launched our Cavalier Connection quarterly alumni magazine and Alumni Assembly Speaker series, where an alum visits campus each quarter to share about their personal and professional career experience for our current generation of Cavaliers.

“Each year, we present one alum with the Distinguished Alumni Award at commencement, where they deliver an address to our graduates. It’s a special, full-circle moment as our graduates glean wisdom from a fellow Cavalier who has already made great career strides.”

The significance of reaching what TJIDS considers a consequential mile marker with its total number of graduates over 32 years is worth commemorating.

Lauden says, “We have a special event planned on Saturday, October 5, to celebrate our 500-alumni milestone that will be complete with live music, inflatables and tasty treats.”

Whether these alumni are with TJ from the earliest ages or venture along for the ride a few years later, Lauden says, “Many of our graduates refer to themselves as ‘lifers,’ having started their academic

journeys here in either pre-kindergarten or kindergarten and continuing through until graduation.

“However, most of our graduates join TJ in Lower School (elementary) and Middle School. Because of the small class sizes, students often create deep bonds with one another. Many of the students liken their school community to family.”

Many of these TJ graduates go on to do amazing things. Lauden says, “In addition to military service and parenthood, our TJ alumni span a broad and robust range of professions across our country and beyond, as well.

“Some of the professions represented by our alumni include executive directors, lawyers, medical professionals, educators, architects, video directors, entrepreneurs, project managers, performers and many, many more.”

Sharing examples of successes, Lauden says, “A few specific alums include Angie Scott (Class of 2005), who is the talent acquisition leader for Tyson Foods in Springdale, Arkansas; and Dr. Tyler Fraum (Class of 2004) is simultaneously a radiologist at Barnes Jewish Hospital (St. Louis, Missouri) and on the teaching faculty at Washington University School of Medicine, also in St. Louis.

“Aaron McDonald (Class of 2018) has performed as a clarinet substitute for both the Kansas City Symphony Orchestra and Vancouver (British Columbia, Canada) Symphony Orchestra, and is currently pursuing a Doctor of Musical Arts in Clarinet Performance from the University of British Columbia.”

Anne Hershewe (Class of 2006), who is a lawyer in Kansas City and serves as TJ Alumni Advisory Council Steering Committee president, appreciates how much TJIDS did for her, and she says, “TJ instilled in me a curiosity for the world around me.

“It was the foundation for shaping me into the person I am today. My education at TJ gave me the tools to think critically and understand the importance of being an engaged and informed citizen.”

Lauden understands the significance of sending well-prepared graduates who represent TJIDS in exemplary fashion, and he says, “Our alumni serve as a vital reminder and proof of the impact and importance of our mission-driven organization and the responsibility we have in educating them to make the most of their abilities.

“At the end of the day, having a strong and vibrant alumni network helps us know we’re on the right track and inspires us to keep pushing to be the best we can be as an organization by continuing to provide topnotch educational opportunities for students in the Four States and a community that helps foster a lifelong love of learning.”

TJ staff couldn’t be more delighted with all its graduates have achieved, and Lauden says, “We are incredibly proud of and inspired by our alumni, both by their career successes and the strong charactered lives they lead.”

In his specific role, Lauden gets a close-up view of all former students and where their paths take them after TJ, and he says, “It is my personal joy to meet and learn from the many fascinating and inspiring individuals we have in our alumni network.

“Whether it’s coffee conversations or catching up at an event, I never cease to be surprised and impressed by the humor, wisdom and wealth of experience carried by our alumni. Spending time with them has inspired me and reminded me of my own why.”

Lauden encourages others to join the TJIDS family and says, “If you know of anyone who would like to be a part of our next 500 alumni, please have them give us a call. We’d love to welcome them into our Cavalier Community.”

By Heather Reynolds

This October marks the 140th anniversary of the founding of the Joplin Area Catholic Schools (JACS) we know today. These schools have played an important role in the history of Joplin’s Catholic community and continue to do so in 2025.

In 1885, the 13 Sisters of Mercy traveled from Louisville, Kentucky, to Joplin, Missouri, where they founded what was then the Institute of Our Lady of Mercy Oct. 4, 1885. The school was run by the nuns who were considered a novelty in the small town of Joplin. By 1912, St. Peter’s grade school opened. Two decades later, plans were made for St. Peter’s High School, a four-year co-ed high school, which was founded in 1935.

Originally each of these schools was separate and a part of the parishes, then in 1972, the JACS system was formed and they joined forces, giving the schools a connection and a stronger system of support. After the Joplin tornado destroyed St. Mary’s Parish and School in 2011, the parish moved to Central City Road west of Joplin. St. Peter's and McAuley schools are located in their original locations, where they have been since 1885.

The newest addition to the JACS system is St. Ann’s Catholic School in Carthage, Missouri, which joined the system July 1, 2025. Adding this school to the Joplin Area Catholic School system brought the total number of schools to four. Those schools include St. Mary’s, St. Peter’s, McAuley, and now St. Ann’s.

In the past, all the classes were taught by the Sisters of Mercy, but now classes are taught by non-secular faculty members.

Director of Schools Jess Sickman is excited to celebrate the 140th anniversary this year. Sickman has a background in marketing and business and was hired as the director in 2024. JACS has goals to better market to the community in order to see growth in the coming years.

Sickman is the mother of two Catholic school students in the JACS system. She and her family moved to the Joplin area 4 years ago. Born and raised Catholic, she has had a connection to Catholic schools for many years.

“My mom was a principal at a Catholic school when I was growing up,” she said. Although not a former Catholic school student, her life was formed by her faith. “My faith was a huge part of my upbringing.”

The Catholic school system in Joplin has seen a lot of changes over the years and lots of growth since its inception in 1885.

“It’s really cool that we have multiple church and parish communities, and together as a school, we see all those families coming together and sharing our faith and growing as a Catholic community,” said Sickman.

One of the ways Catholic schools stand out from traditional public schools is obviously the connection to their faith.

“We encourage prayer, and no matter what we are going through, we know God is with us,” she said. The mission is to put God and Jesus first in everything they do.

The students are all connected as a whole and go to Mass once a week as a student body. Around 16% of the student body is non-Catholic.

“It has been a great experience to see the non-Catholic students be a part of worshiping and to be joined in faith with their peers, knowing that we are all there together for our faith. It is beautiful and encouraging,” Sickman said.

All of the JACS schools are active in the community.

“Something I wanted to make sure we are doing more of is providing service to our community,” said Sickman. The schools partnered with Mercy Hospital and cleaned at Mercy Park, and they always have groups looking for opportunities to serve the community.

“We have a great relationship with Wildwood Senior Living, which is across the street from St. Mary's Elementary,” she said.

All of the schools host charity dress days. Once a month, they choose a charity students can pay a few dollars to in order to wear non-uniform attire for that day. The school system also partners with charities like Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Four States and Lafayette House. Representatives from these charities come to the schools to explain how the students’ donations help those charities and partners.

“Instilling that in the children even at a young age is important, and they are starting to understand how that works,” Sickman continued.

The school system also has a program called Mercy Meals. The schools received a grant to have students in the culinary arts program in the middle school and high school prepare meals and have them delivered to people in the community who are in need.

“We have someone in our community that just recently had a knee replacement, so we are able to provide them with meals as needed,” she said.

Currently all four of the schools have a total of 314 students with the addition of St. Ann’s in Carthage. Although that number may seem small, it’s a great accomplishment for the schools and also a positive when it comes to the ability to have small class sizes.

“At times, attendance has dropped, such as after the tornado or during hard times. But we are seeing a turn for the better and an uptick in numbers,” Sickman said.

On Sept. 24, students will celebrate Mercy Day, and the entire school community will celebrate Mass together. They will worship and pray and the students will spend time together as an entire system. They will also have alumni on hand to celebrate.

“There are some fun plans in the works, but we are also working to have more things planned.”

This year, the Catholic school system created the Legacy of Faith Endowment, which was a $17 million donation from donors who believe in the schools’ mission. Families are awarded tuition assistance through the endowment.

“A lot of our families are now paying very minimal tuition for their students to be able to attend here,” Sickman said. The Legacy of Faith Endowment has also allowed the system to hire a new position that is focused on campus ministry and service. This position will help in finding ways to allow the schools’ Catholic identity to shine through.

St. Mary’s Elementary is also welcoming Joseph Beachner, a new principal. “We are very excited to have him coming on board and excited to see where he leads the elementary school.”

The schools have plenty of learning and leadership opportunities for the students that help prepare them for their future and college careers.

“The opportunities we offer our high school students really do help prepare for their college experience,” said Sickman. Her son was able to graduate with college credits and is now more prepared for college.

JACS also has a few corporate sponsorships with local businesses to help provide tuition assistance that helps support the mission. When the sponsors partner with the school system, the schools are able to provide a discount for their employees' children.

“We are grateful we have Mercy Hospital and Freeman Health System, among others, that help support our mission,” Sickman said.

As a nonprofit organization, corporate sponsorships are vital to the school system’s growth.

FROM STORAGE CLOSET TO SANCTUARY

HOW ONE TEACHER TRANSFORMED A ROOM— AND LIVES—AT PARK ELEMENTARY

By Amy Howe

“They needed a safe, calming environment where they could reset and return to class ready to learn.

That little room had the potential to become something meaningful.”

Atfirst glance, the unused office in Rylee Crain’s special education classroom at Park Elementary in Columbus, Kansas, looked like nothing more than a makeshift storage closet—crammed with extra supplies and a few underutilized sensory tools. But to Crain, it looked like opportunity.

“I saw firsthand how many students were struggling to regulate their emotions throughout the day,” she said. “They needed a safe, calming environment where they could reset and return to class ready to learn. That little room had the potential to become something meaningful.”

Crain, a special education teacher at Park Elementary, brought the idea of converting the space into a sensory room to her principal, who encouraged her to pursue the vision and apply for grant funding. The school’s limited resources wouldn’t cover the project, and without financial help, the transformation simply wouldn’t be possible, at least not in time for the next school year.

That’s when Crain discovered the Community Foundation of Southeast Kansas (CFSEK) and its General Funds grant cycle, which focuses on initiatives like youth activities, education and wellness. Her application outlined a plan for a sensory room accessible to all students—a place not just for breaks, but for building better regulation, relationships and readiness to learn.

To her delight, the project was funded.

Meeting a Growing Need

The idea wasn’t born out of thin air. Over the past year, Crain and the school’s resource team noticed a rising trend in students struggling with emotional regulation, focus and sensory processing. Transitions such as coming in from recess or moving between classes often

triggered behavioral outbursts or led to academic avoidance. The old “quiet room” offered a plain space for cooling off, but it lacked the tools or structure students needed to truly re-regulate.

“We were frequently removing students from class to give them sensory breaks, but we didn’t have a consistent or well-equipped space for that,” Crain explained. “The data from behavior charts and referrals made it clear—we needed something better.”

What they needed was a designated space tailored to calming the nervous system, offering sensory input or output depending on what the student needed. Crain’s grantfunded solution delivered exactly that.

A Room with a Purpose

The finished sensory room is now a warm, inviting space designed to meet diverse student needs through movement, calming activities and tactile stimulation. Some of the standout features include a custom indoor playground with a swing, rock wall, detachable slide and rope wall—elements that provide both proprioceptive and vestibular input essential to self-regulation. The room also features a ball pit, calming fish tube, sensory wall panels, soft lighting, lavender scents, noise-canceling headphones, liquid sensory floor tiles, weighted vests and blankets, and various fidgets and tactile tools.

“The room is cozy, colorful and calming all at once,” Crain said. “And it was only possible because of the grant funding.”

But the impact goes far beyond the décor. Since opening the sensory room, Crain and her colleagues have noticed a remarkable shift in student behavior and academics.

“Students are now more independent and self-aware,” she said. “They’re learning to recognize when their bodies need movement, quiet or sensory input—and they know where to go to get it.”

Teachers across the building have seen the difference, too. In fact, the room has become a shared resource—open to every student and used by nearly every teacher at Park Elementary.

“It’s helped students regulate without disrupting their entire day,” Crain noted. “And it’s helped teachers manage their classrooms more effectively.”

One Student’s Journey

Among the many success stories, one stands out in Crain’s memory—a young boy who,

early in the year, was spending more time outside the classroom than in it.

“He was missing academic lessons and struggling to build relationships with his peers because of frequent dysregulation,” she said. “At first, we built in scheduled sensory breaks for him, and immediately we saw a shift.”

Over time, the student began to self-advocate for breaks and use the room intentionally. His behavior incidents declined, his academic participation increased, and most importantly, he developed the self-awareness and skills needed to succeed socially and academically.

“By the end of the year, he hardly needed the room at all,” Crain said. “He had grown so much. Seeing that transformation is the most rewarding part of my job.”

A New Lens for Teaching

The project not only changed the lives of students—it reshaped Crain’s own approach to teaching. Prior to the project, she admits her understanding of sensory processing was limited.

“I knew some kids needed movement or calming breaks, but I didn’t fully understand why,” she said. “This project pushed me to do research, attend trainings and work closely with our occupational therapist.”

That learning curve has led to deeper connections with her students, and a better ability to meet their individual needs.

“I’m still learning, and always will be,” Crain added. “But now I’m better equipped to identify what supports students need and how to proactively implement them.”

Lasting Impact, Future Plans

While Crain will be moving to a new building next school year, the lessons and inspiration she gained through the sensory room project are coming with her.

“I won’t be teaching SPED next year, but I’ve already started planning to replicate the sensory room in my new school,” she said. “The results speak for themselves.”

She hopes the success at Park Elementary inspires other educators to look around their own schools, spot an unused space or unmet need and take action.

“My parents always told me I could make anything happen if I just believed in myself and tried,” Crain said. “The worst that can happen is someone says no. The best? You change lives.”

Grant Funding That Makes a Difference

None of this would have been possible without the support of the Community Foundation of Southeast Kansas. Crain is adamant about that.

“We had the dream and the need, but we didn’t have the funds,” she said. “The grant gave us the ability to move quickly and make this happen for our students when they needed it most.”

It’s not just a sensory room—it’s a sanctuary, a support system and a symbol of what happens when educators are empowered and communities invest in their youth.

Crain encourages other teachers with big ideas to seek out similar opportunities. “There are organizations out there that want to support schools. If you see a need—go for it.”

Because sometimes, the smallest room in the building can become the most powerful.

Teacher Rylee Crain

Navigating the Summer Slide with Compass Academy

“Compass Academy is about more than academics— it’s about helping students believe in themselves and their potential,” said Debra Humphreys, founder and CEO of Compass Academy Network. “This program creates meaningful opportunities for students to grow as learners, citizens and future leaders in their communities, all while having fun and making new friends.”

Parents are all too familiar with the concept of the “summer slide.” That last class lets out for the summer, beach bags are packed and your kid loses an average of 20% in reading skills and 27% of math skills they learned in school the previous year, according to tenneyschool.com.

By Allison Riechman-Bennett

So, what can a parent do? What can parents and educators provide to students during the summer months to prevent students from sliding back and losing more than they learned in the academic school year?

Debra Humphreys originally founded Thomas Jefferson Independent Day School in Joplin, Missouri, intended as a collegepreparatory school for the area. In the 30 years since its opening, Debra began to notice students from rural communities in the region experienced the summer slide most in middle schools. In 2019, Debra sought to solve the summer slide, and she hoped to give students a summer boost in their academic achievements. She set out to solve the issue with Compass Academy Network, a program intended for rural middle schoolers to beat the summer slump.

“Compass Academy is about more than academics—it’s about helping students believe in themselves and their potential,” said Debra. “This program creates meaningful opportunities for students to grow as learners, citizens and future leaders in their communities, all while having fun and making new friends.”

They are currently working with many host school districts to bring the program to rural school districts such as Wabaunsee Junior High in Alma, Kansas; Labette County High in Altamont, Kansas; Columbus Junior/Senior High in Columbus, Kansas; Pittsburg Community Middle School in Pittsburg, Kansas; Atlanta C-3 School in Atlanta, Missouri; Thomas Jefferson Independent Day School in Joplin, Missouri; Neosho Junior High in Neosho, Missouri; and Quapaw High School in Quapaw, Oklahoma. All of these sites host the four-week sessions provided by CAN, and any parent interested in having their child apply can contact CAN at any time.

The program itself is free but requires students to be engaged and keep a B- average during their required attendance in the program. While spots for this summer’s sessions are filled, students attending school in school districts with free and reduced lunch programs are given priority in the enrollment process. While summer can be a dealbreaker for kids and the summer slide, Compass Academy provides an incredible selection of subjects for students to strengthen over break. Math, science, art and creative writing are just a few of the classes students can choose

from to attend during the four-week program, building on their personal development, artistic expression and team building. Students of the program can expect to take field trips at the end of the week that support their education at the academy, like a trip to Crystal Bridges in congruence with art classes, and local colleges to start the path to higher education earlier in their academic careers.

Students can also expect to complete this program as model civil citizens. Compass Academy has partnered with the Bill of Rights Institute, a nonpartisan, non-profit educational organization that aims to develop education resources for free to enhance the classroom civic experience. Students write their own constitution, learn basic civic duties and how to become an active and engaged community member.

With good attendance and maintaining that B- average for the whole of the program, students are eligible to earn a $45 gift card, which they can use for school supplies for the upcoming fall semester.

One can sense the dedication of Debra and CAN’s Executive Director Laura McDonald, not only to education but the quality of education and instructors they provide through the program. While the program does have that minimum Baverage requirement of students attending, CAN isn’t targeted toward kids in gifted programs. Engaged learners are preferred and are rewarded

by the opportunities CAN provides outside of preventing the summer slide.

“Involvement in education is the way to open up the world to kids, and Compass is the best way we’ve found to do it,” Debra said.

She also said there is a noticeable difference in student cohorts that are CAN attendees and those students who are not. That summer slide hits students with no summer programming the hardest, while students enrolled in CAN gain on reading and math scores by the fall school semester.

Compass doesn’t just benefit middle schoolers during their summer vacation; it also benefits surrounding college students hoping to teach after graduation. Part of Compass’ mission is for students to have some initial contact with college education. The program accomplishes this through a partnership with Missouri Southern State University in Joplin and with students in attendance of their education department.

College students can apply to be a peer mentor, working to bridge the gap between future educators and students of today. CAN recruits approximately 20 mentors annually, all of which connect with CAN students directly, strengthening college students’ communication in the classroom, their leadership, overall organization, community development and more. Confidence that can usually take semesters of students teaching can be built in these four-

week sessions while mentoring CAN students.

If you aren’t in a school district that partners with CAN, or if you are an educator interested in working with and hosting CAN at your current school district, Debra and the rest of the CAN team are excited to work with you.

This past June, more than 145 middle school students from Southeast Kansas, Southwest Missouri and Northeast Oklahoma graduated from CAN. These students will take their summer gains into the classrooms this fall. While applications are closed for this summer’s sessions, you can visit www. compassacademynetwork.org for more information regarding Summer 2026 sessions.

The Face of 8TH GRADE CIVICS EDUCATION

Roger Ball

Aurora Junior High School

Roger Ball is a consummate professional who has dedicated his entire career to the families of the Aurora R-8 School District.

“I earned my Social Science Education degree from then-Missouri Southern State College in Joplin, Missouri, in 1993,” Roger said. “In 2007, I graduated from Missouri State University in Springfield with a master’s degree in administration. However, I stayed in the classroom to be a better teacher to my students instead of going into administration.”

Roger has 32 years in education and has taught in the Aurora School District since 1996. He has taught American history, military history and civics to Aurora students in the last 29 years, and this coming spring, he will retire.

He always found ways to continue motivating students, which can be especially challenging with students at middle school age. His contributions to the Aurora Junior High and the Aurora School District are beyond words, and he will leave huge shoes to fill.

500 W. Olive St. | Aurora, MO 417.678.3630 | www.aurora8.org

The Face of JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL SUPPORT

Dana Rogers-Wright

Aurora Junior High School

Dana Rogers-Wright is the backbone of Aurora Junior High. Her positive attitude radiates whether she is interacting with students, staff or parents. If you need an answer, you ask Dana. Her work ethic, commitment to excellence and positive attitude are the standards every person should strive to achieve.

“My journey at Aurora Schools began when my former employer, Little Tykes, closed its doors in Aurora,” Dana said. “Melissa Howard, a former science teacher at Aurora Junior High School, told me about a secretary position opening due to the retirement of Charlene Lackey. Indeed, I needed a daytime job to be able to raise my sons but knew Charlene’s were big shoes to fill. What a blessing it has been to be hired and work at Aurora Schools all these years.”

500 W. Olive St. | Aurora, MO 417.678.3630 | www.aurora8.org

The Face of 6TH GRADE ELA EDUCATION

Lindsey Murphy Robinson Elementary School

Lindsey Murphy is an exceptional educator whose talent far exceeds her years of experience. She brings passion and purpose to everything she does, always striving to provide the best learning opportunities for her students. As a 6th grade ELA (English Language Arts) teacher at Robinson Elementary School in Aurora, Missouri, for the past 2 years, she consistently challenges her students to give their best and supports them every step of the way. She is also a true team player—always willing to step in, collaborate and contribute to a positive school culture. In addition to teaching, she is the junior high cheer coach.

Her enthusiasm is contagious, and her actions inspire those around her to rise to the occasion. We are incredibly proud to celebrate her as our District Rookie of the Year!

She is an Aurora alumna and said, “Over my time at Aurora, I have had so many incredible educators, both in my school and professionally. Because I was inspired by so many great educators throughout my time as a student in Aurora, I chose to follow in their footsteps. I hope to be half the educator they were.

“I cannot wait to further my career and grow as an educator at Robinson. In the wise words of Mrs. Mobley, ‘All roads lead home.’”

1034 S. Lincoln Ave. | Aurora, MO 417.678.7436 | www.aurora8.org

The Face of KINDERGARTEN EDUCATION

McKinzie Cooper-Kunard RISE Elementary School

Congratulations to Mrs. McKinzie Cooper-Kunard from RISE Elementary School, named the 2025 Neosho School District Teacher of the Year! Mrs. Cooper-Kunard’s passion, creativity and dedication shine in every lesson she teaches. She inspires students and colleagues alike, making learning playful, structured and centered on each child’s developmental needs. Her classroom is a place where curiosity thrives and young minds grow.

“I have always wanted to be a kindergarten teacher,” she shared. “Watching tiny humans grow into amazing people because I never gave up on them. The hugs, high fives, the ‘lightbulb’ and ‘ah-hah’ moments, energy and excitement at RISE Elementary makes me feel like I’m living my best life! I love my job!”

Thank you, Mrs. Cooper-Kunard, for your commitment to nurturing young learners and shaping a bright future for the Neosho School District and our community.

201 N. Washington St. | Neosho, MO 417.451.8620 | www.neoshosd.org

The Face of HEAD OF

Garry Hallman

Thomas

SCHOOL LEADERSHIP

Jefferson Independent Day School

Garry Hallman, Thomas Jefferson Independent Day School’s (TJ) newly appointed head of school, is excited to help usher in the school’s next chapter.

“I am truly honored to have been selected as the new head of school. TJ has a vibrant community filled with people who care about education and about preparing students for the future.”

With over 20 years of experience in education, both as a teacher and administrator, Hallman relocated to Joplin from Colora, Maryland. Hallman deeply values meaningful, one-on-one connections and learning the stories that motivate and inspire those around him.

“TJ has had a remarkable history so far. I believe that we have a civic responsibility here at TJ to build the best leaders and thinkers that we can to make us all better, and seeing the results of our mission play out over the next decade will be very rewarding.”

3401

The Face of COLLEGE COUNSELING

Jon Emery

Thomas Jefferson Independent Day School

While Thomas Jefferson Independent Day School (TJ) has had a college counseling program for many years, the school is welcoming its first, full-time director of college counseling, Jon Emery.

“The emphasis on community and character building, on top of stellar academics, makes Thomas Jefferson a special place to call home. While I'm thrilled to join this community as the new director of college counseling, I'm equally excited to join it as a parent.”

With a career spanning nearly 20 years, Emery has gained experience as an educator and college-access specialist.

“The range of policies, timelines and deadlines in college admission, financial aid, housing and related matters can be overwhelming. Having that added layer of individualized support inspires confidence, enhances outcomes and allows everyone involved to enjoy the crossroads without succumbing to the anxiety inherent in college planning and access.”

Emery is energized to support each student’s unique academic journey.

3401 Newman Rd. | Joplin, MO 417.781.5124 | www.tjeffschool.org

TWO DEGREES | ONE PRICE

We’ll automatically award an Associate of Arts degree as you earn it! We’ve also got flat-rate tuition to help accelerate your path to graduation, robust scholarships, and many support services to help every student.

Road House'

By Heather Reynolds

Jasper, Missouri, has a new business that opened earlier this year. Road House Gas and Grocery opened April 25 just off of Highway 49. The business offers groceries, gas and liquor and also hosts a number of events throughout the year.

The owners of Road House are Helena Tong and her father, Steve Tong. The Tongs have been doing business together for most of Helena’s working career.

“We’ve been together a lot of years. I dare you to find a better daddy-daughter duo than us,” said Helena. Before opening Road House, Helena and Steve owned the quarry across the road. The land Road House sits on was sitting mostly unused before the Tongs had the idea of opening the gas and grocery store.

“It’s just something different, something new,” said Helena

The Tongs have lived in and around the Jasper area for many years. They know the area and the people well.

“My dad used to be a John Deere dealer in Carthage. We’ve always lived within 10 miles of this area,” said Helena. She is a well-known local around Jasper, sharing many inside jokes and laughs as locals and customers come in and out of the store.

When deciding on the kind of business they wanted to open, Helena originally wanted to open a drive-through liquor store, but Steve decided a grocery and gas station would be more beneficial for the community.

“Jasper has a lot of voids to fill. Lamar and Carthage each have grocery stores people can travel to but Jasper hasn’t had one in years,” said Helena. Having the gas and grocery not only fills the void of a grocery store for residents of the town, it also provides jobs to a good number of people from the area.

Road House is open from 5 a.m. to 11 p.m. every day, with plans to move to 24-hour opening times in the near future. “We need to be open for the trucks that like to park here overnight,” said Helena.

The Tongs offer a variety of grocery foods and typical gas station foods such as hot dogs, pizza and sandwiches. They also have a large liquor section and a beverage area. Recently, they added a casino gaming machine section in the back of the building where they now serve beer. There is also free truck parking for any semi trucks that may need a place to park for the night.

The model of the building is based off of the 1980s movie of the same name starring Patrick Swayze and Sam Elliott. The film takes place in a fictitious version of Jasper, Missouri. Swayze plays the role of James Dalton, a bouncer at the Double Deuce, the roughest bar around, to help straighten up the rough characters who frequent the bar.

Although the movie itself was not filmed in Jasper, or even in Missouri, it’s interesting to have a movie that takes place in the real town we know locally. Road House Gas and Grocery’s decor features many different movie quotes, and items that reference the movie can be seen throughout the building. From posters and signs down to the style of font on the front of the building, there are references everywhere you turn in Road House. There are also T-shirts and other items for sale that reference the movie.

Opening a business modeled after the Double Deuce bar from the movie “Road House” in Jasper just makes sense. Since the movie is based in the small town of the same name, it only makes sense to start this business and make it a sort of tourist attraction for the area.

“I thought, ‘Why not, there hasn’t ever been a Road House in Jasper,’” said Helena.

People from Jasper and those traveling through like the business. “The reception has been good. We haven’t had a whole lot of complaints, so that’s a huge positive,” Helena said. A lot of work and sweat went into creating the business and the Tongs are happy to hear people enjoy the business.

“People like it. We get a lot of repeat customers, which is great,” said Helena. “It’s great to have people come through on trips and they love it. It’s great to hear them say they are going to stop here on their next trip through the area.”

With a population of just under 1,000 people, there is not a lot of opportunity for businesses like a grocery store to thrive. The Tongs hope Road House offers some necessities to the people of the area as well as being a place where tourists might like to visit.

Road House also hosts different events like parking lot parties and car shows planned throughout the summer.

CLAIRE ' S READING PROGRAM

ENCOURAGING READING AND PROMOTING KINDNESS

Claire’s Reading Program in Grove, Oklahoma, was started by retired registered nurse Louise Templin and her granddaughter, Claire, in September 2023.

Louise said, “It started when my son sent me a picture of Claire reading to an animal. The picture touched my heart, and I got the idea of the reading program.”

Louise noticed that Oklahoma’s literacy ratings for young kids significantly decreased since the pandemic. Louise is on the board of directors of Second Chance Pet Rescue, and through that connection, she was able to begin Claire’s Reading Program, which introduced a way to encourage literacy in children by allowing them to read to dogs, cats and other animals in shelters.

In late July or August 2023, Louise met with Dottie Smith, the principal of Grove Elementary School, and with Cassie, the director of Second Chance Pet Rescue. They discussed logistics of the program, such as who is allowed to go, how to account for possible animal allergies in the students, and

By Jaiden Dorris

scheduling. The principal was so excited about it, the program began earlier than expected.

“At Claire's Reading Program, our goal is to increase reading and writing capability, and empower readers to develop strong intellect with compassion and care for shelter animals,” Louise said.

The program allows for a first-, second-, or third-grade class to visit the shelter on a Friday during the school year to read to animals individually. This brightens up the animals’ day and encourages the children to read more at home. Often, children will go home and instead of playing video games or watching TV, they will read to their dog, cat or their stuffed animals if they don’t have pets. In only 2 years, there have been over 1,500 children who have gone to the shelter to read to the animals.

The staff and volunteers at the shelter enjoy the reading days and are ready to engage and encourage the children to read.

The follow-up reviews and surveys act as ways for teachers to input their observations of changes in a child’s behavior or how the visit with the animals impacted them.

“The teacher evaluations are so positive, so we know the program is working,” said Louise.

One teacher said in a post-shelter reading survey, “This program is amazing! I honestly don’t know of any way for you to improve! With third graders, they are more focused on reading well, showing the pictures and fluency. So sweet!”

The program is working so well, the Grove Elementary principal wants to begin it in the second week of school in 2025. Starting sooner will allow for more flexibility because of the weather. The weather is the biggest hindrance to the students visiting the shelter, but everyone involved makes sure every student is included. The winter months and April are the most unstable because of freezes or thunderstorms. If a class misses because of weather, they reschedule the meeting. If a student is sick, he/ she can attend alongside another class in the following weeks.

Louise plans to meet with teachers before this coming school year starts to go over parental consent forms, allergy forms and possible behavioral issues so the shelter knows what to expect or prepare for. The program only allows for a nurse and the teachers to go with the students to the shelter. They have found that if there is a parent involved on the day of the trip, sometimes the children feel less comfortable reading out loud. When it is just the student

face-to-face with the dog or cat, he/she generally opens up and reads readily. In addition to this, the animals quiet down and sometimes fall asleep as they listen to the children.

This program also encourages children to read the name tags on the animal cages and read the animals’ stories. In doing this, the children often go home, ecstatic with joy and energy from learning about the animals, and will bring their parents to the shelter the next day to meet them.

Cassie, the shelter director, said, “Every student, even homeschooled ones, who walks through that door has a smile on their face because they're so happy to be there. Even the animals have a smile and a tail wag!”

One example of this is the story of Lemondrop. Lemondrop was a rescue dog that was not social at all. The 7-year-old boy who read to Lemondrop was almost non-verbal and was diagnosed with autism. He opened up to the pup and began reading. After three days of deliberation, his father went to the shelter to adopt Lemondrop. Now the boy reads to Lemondrop every day.

There have been many more pet adoptions because of this program, which is important because the Second Chance Pet Rescue shelter, a no-kill shelter, has over 4,000 neglected and abused animals waiting to be taken in. Not only does this program encourage adoptions, but it also increases the availability for a dog or cat to be taken in and cared for.

One time after a reading, even Louise adopted one of the dogs from the shelter, and since then, the poodle mix has come completely out of its shell.

One of the many benefits of the reading program is that it acts as a positive closure for children who recently lost a pet. This allows a child to feel loved and listened to by an animal again. One girl, who recently lost her dog, went into the shelter feeling sad. She did not want to see the dogs and be reminded of her pet. Upon arriving at the shelter, the staff understood and allowed her to hold some kittens. After playing with the cats, she decided she was open to reading to the dogs. She walked out of the shelter with a smile on her face.

Louise and Cassie love to spread the word to other schools and shelters in the area that children and animals need this positive interaction.

The program also partners with the Rotary Club, of which Louise is a member. The Rotary’s caregiving belief is Service Above Self, which falls right into line with this program. Other partners include Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, Nevermore Book Store in Grove and the Grove Public Library.

Many Grove residents have donated books to the shelter, and now the shelter has its own little library. Sometimes the classes will have a dog food drive or a money collection for the shelter to be able to cover their expenses. It costs over $500 a week to make sure the animals are fed. It costs over $30,000 to keep the doors of the shelter open, so donations are much appreciated. But above all, the shelter encourages adoptions. That is why it only costs $50 to adopt a pet that has been microchipped, fully vaccinated, spayed or neutered and heartworm tested. The adoption fee is only $11 for veterans.

Louise said, “Everyone in the area is encouraged to spread the word and become involved in bringing joy to children and animals. If we did all the things we are capable of doing, we would literally astonish ourselves!”

By Don Lowe

WHY I Ride

Biking Builds Relationships Amongst Like-minded Outdoor Enthusiasts

AlthoughPittsburg, Kansas, lifelong resident Tom Swartz has never gotten into competitive mountain biking or any other serious biking races/events, he has a passion for this leisurely recreational sport that has continued for many decades.

“Of course, as a kid, I rode my bike everywhere as general transportation,” Tom says. “And then I got into BMX bikes, and I was hooked on that as I got older. “Later, I switched to a 10-speed bike and decided to start riding out of town to local lakes and different places like that. It’s just grown a lot from there for me.”

As for what made him continue to stick with biking as he got older instead of various other indoor/outdoor activities, Tom says, “I just really enjoy bicycling a lot.

“You can travel a good distance easily to see different things and get in a good workout at the same time. But it’s not extremely hard on your body since it is more of a low-impact exercise.”

Now in his mid-50s, biking remains a fun activity but there are other factors that serve as incentive to keep on pedaling. Tom says, “As I’ve gotten older, I’ve used bicycling to help keep myself in shape physically as well as mentally. It’s a way to de-stress and help keep me as healthy as possible.”

Health is a big part of it but there is a combination of things that help keep Tom climbing on his bike day after day, and he says, “I really do like the low impact as I’m getting older, and that’s important with my knees hurting more and more.

“I also like the camaraderie with bicycling. I do ride with several other people on a regular basis. So, besides getting my miles in riding, we all get to spend time catching up and talking about what’s going on in each other’s lives.”

While he continues to spend time cycling on his own, building relationships with other like-minded individuals who enjoy this recreational sport by joining the Whose Tires Flat? Cycling Club (WTF) has proven beneficial from that standpoint and Tom describes this affiliation simply as “a group of guys who just like to get together and ride and drink a few adult beverages.

Tom Swartz and Renato Pinto enjoy a ride together.

“When we meet, normally sometime during the week, we discuss our plan for the weekend. There’s about five or six of us. We ride about 30 miles, normally on a Sunday morning. We’ve just been lifelong friends.”

Tom says, “WTF has been around for about 30 years. It’s really about friendship and fellowship. We like to discuss everything from politics to religion, and all those things you don’t want to talk about with other people.

“We always keep our upcoming rides posted on Facebook. We invite people to come along with us. We have a few people we see on a regular basis. We have some new faces every now and then. It’s an easy group to have fun with and we enjoy the camaraderie. It’s just a group of guys hanging out together.”

Interestingly, Tom and a friend connected with a group that focuses on running instead of cycling, and an alliance, so to speak, came about. He says, “I met Renato and Katherine Pinto (with Running Collective). My buddy, Brian Jackson, invited me to go on an evening walk/run with their (Renato’s and Katherine’s) group. “From there, they (Renato and Katherine) wanted to talk with us, and we shared information with them about our biking group (WTF). They asked if we’d be interested in trying to coordinate some bike rides along with some of the Running Collective group who wanted to join us.

“So, that’s where the marriage with The Running Collective and WTF started. And, then from there, Renato wanted to get the Coal Miner’s Gravel Ride (five separate timed rides in early May) going here in Southeast Kansas. I was excited to help Renato with that since all the proceeds go to charity.”

Whether it’s WTF and Running Collective or just going solo, Tom keeps an active schedule cycling, and he says, “I ride five to six days a week as Mother Nature allows. The springtime (with a lot of rain) can be tough. But I like to ride about 20 miles in the evenings. On the weekend, I ride 30 to 40 miles each day (Saturday and Sunday).”

When it comes to locations he prefers to go cycling, Tom says, “I really enjoy riding my gravel bike out in the mile section here in Southeast Kansas and Southwest Missouri. There’s a lot less traffic.

“I might get to see a few friendly cows. There’s just a lot of different scenery versus riding on pavement in town and on highways where everyone is going 70 miles per hour and faster.”

Tom Swartz Fast Facts

Age: 55

Wife: Angela, married 23 years in November.

Children: Alyvia and Dylan

Hometown: Pittsburg, Kansas

High School Alma Mater/Year Graduated: Pittsburg High School/1988

College Alma Mater/Year Graduated: Pittsburg State University/1992

College Degree: Bachelor of Science in Technology (Technology Management & Sales)

Professional Career: Outside Sales, Airgas & Grainger

Hobbies: Cycling, “Fox Body” Mustangs and Rock Concerts

No matter how much he enjoys cycling, there are obstacles along the way and elements can be more difficult. “Probably the biggest challenge is just the weather conditions, because we ride year-round.

“November to February can be the toughest times. It can be extremely cold in the winter, then there’s all the rain in the spring. Of course, we get a lot of wind around here and then with Standard Time there’s not as much daylight in the evening (winter months). Those are some of the biggest things.”

Regardless of any roadblocks that come with bike riding from time to time, Tom says, “It gives me a way to unwind after a busy day at work or any other personal issues I might be dealing with one day to the next. It’s also allowed me to lose some weight and really get to feeling better physically and mentally. It’s a good outlet for me.”

By Larry Whiteley

Memories of

Summer

Summer is usually hot, humid, uncomfortable weather. For an outdoors guy like me, staying inside in the air conditioning is hard to do.

On summer mornings, as the sunrise comes, I go outdoors and work in my garden. It is much more comfortable than it will be in a few hours. Cup of coffee in my hand, I sit and watch the birds as they serenade me with song. I watch them come into our bird feeders. Soon, the squirrels and the rabbits join the party.

When it gets hotter, I go back inside to my computer and write stories like this one. It is amazing to me where my mind takes me sometimes. A lot of my stories come from fond memories.

As the sun starts to set, I go outdoors again. The birds and animals are getting ready to go to bed. Nights are cooler. I look at all the stars in the sky and think about how the good Lord has blessed me.

I have loved being in the outdoors ever since I was a kid on my grandparents’ farm. In summer, I was always up early with Grandpa helping with chores before it got too hot. We still had plenty to do during the miserable heat of the day.

Trees shaded the old farmhouse. Grandma would open all the windows hoping for a gentle breeze as she cooked or cleaned. There was no air conditioning back then. Even if there was, we had no electricity. When night came, we sat on the front porch. It was cooler there.

As a teenager, I gigged for frogs on local farm ponds with my buddies on summer nights. There was always something out there in the dark that would get our hearts beating faster. A cow walking toward you in the dark or mooing would do that. So would walking into a spider web or a limb in the dark. So would thoughts of snakes slithering around in the dark. Fried frog legs were always worth it.

Later in life, after serving our country, I married, and my wife and I had kids. When our boys were little, I would take them with me in a pontoon boat at night on my favorite crappie lake. I have great memories of times with my sons crappie fishing on summer nights.

I would hang kerosene lanterns on the railing of the boat. We would later use lights that floated on the water. They attracted flying bugs. Some would fall into the water. The crappie would come in to feed on them. We would put our crappie baits in the water near the lights and always catch a mess of those good-eating fish. The bugs also attracted a bat or two, diving at our heads. The boys did not like the bats. I am sure other night fishermen sometimes heard their screams. There was a time they probably heard screams across the lake when a bat landed on my head. The boys laughed. As grown men now, they still laugh about that. Summer nights are still a great time to catch a limit of crappie.

After our boys married and started their family life, my wife and I bought a weekend log cabin on a rock bluff in the hills south of where our home is. There was a cold, spring-fed stream below the cabin. A waterfall ran down a hill nearby.

There were hiking trails all through the hills surrounding it. Even places to camp if you wanted. We had ATVs to ride through the valley during hunting seasons or for fun any time of the year.

All of that made it a popular place for our sons and their wives to visit us every season of the year. When grandkids came along, it became even more popular. Sometimes, it was just me and Grandma with the grandkids. We loved it. It was a magical place to them.

Even in the heat of summer, the creek was cool and comfortable. The banks on both sides had big trees that shaded our swimming hole. We spent hours there swimming, snorkeling,

TO THINK ABOUT

Life sucks a lot less when you have fresh air, a creek, and peace and quiet.

- Author Unknown

floating on air mattresses, catching crawdads and fishing. All the grandkids caught their first fish there.

They also liked to skip rocks and search around on the gravel bars for what one of them called beautiful rocks and holey rocks or play with their toys in the gravel. They would even find a Native American arrowhead.

On the hottest days of summer, especially if there was a breeze, there was always some shivering when anyone got out of the water, especially from the grandkids when they were little. Grandma and I would wrap a towel around them and set them on our laps with our arms around them to keep them warm.

When grandkids left and went home, or on weekends when we had the cabin all to ourselves, my wife and I would put reclining lawn chairs on the ATVs and take them to the creek. We would set them out in the water in the shade, and talk or read a book. The sound of the flowing water always seemed to put one of us to sleep.

The grandkids all grew up. Our special place was not as magical to them. Our sons and daughters-in-law got busy with their own lives. The times of them all coming to the cabin became less and less. The magic of that special place had faded.

We kept it for a few more years. With family not coming any longer, it was not quite the same. As my wife and I got older, the cabin upkeep became too much for us. We sold it to a young couple with two girls who loved the outdoors. They have made memories there every season of the year, but especially on summer days in the water, having fun.

My wife and I still have all the memories. Sometimes, one of us will bring a memory up, and we both talk about it and remember it. Pictures are all over the house that were taken with kids and grandkids at the cabin, the creek, and hunting and fishing adventures down there. We also have lots of pictures of the fishing trips with our boys when they were little.

We are both now retired. Our weekends and some weekdays now revolve around our church and all our friends there. That was something we neglected all the years we had the cabin. We have a good life.

On hot summer days, we stay mostly in the air conditioning. My wife still reads books. I wrote a book, and I write stories for newspapers, magazines and blogs, including a blog of my own. As bad as I was in English class in high school, I am amazed at all the writing I do now. I tell others it is a gift from God.

I am writing this story in the air conditioning. I want to encourage you, though, to get outdoors and find a magical place to make your own memories of summer.

DOG DAYS OF SUMMER HABITAT INVENTORY

Field notes by J. Cantrell

Photos courtesy of the MO Dept. of Conservation

Jeff Cantrell is a MO Stream Team biologist covering the Ozarks and southwest portion of the state. He can be reached at jeff.cantrell@mdc.mo.gov.

WhenI started my career, one of the most popular topics people would ask about at special events, county fairs or just on my own time at lunch, etc., would be bobwhite quail.

Quail was fresh in a lot of people’s memories, and the birds’ presence was a reminder of family life on the farm, whether their welcomed voice chiming in on the homestead or a traditional hunt on Thanksgiving morning.

When the Four-States Region had many small farms throughout the landscape, bobwhite quail were a common resident. However, since the mid- and late-1900s, many factors have come into play for the quail population’s demise. The obvious reasons are also the most overlooked. Often, for people living on the landscape, the land changes take place slowly and we don’t take immediate notice. We may think the farm or the land has always been this way, but the truth is perhaps the farm has changed considerably.

The game birds were most abundant before the non-native grass, fescue was plentiful, smaller farms meant more fencerows (with native shrubs and wildflowers) and more diverse agriculture fields.

Habitat is always the key. Habitat is that blend of what a species needs in its niche, and a land manager must think about the wildlife’s needs for each season of the year. So August is not the ideal time to break ground, plant or manipulate habitat too much. But this month is perfect for assessing the needs of quail and seeing if your property is suitable as is or needs a plan. The plant life we see in August foretells the upcoming winter’s survival rate.

Quail are not forest birds, so if the property is open grassland or has a few scattered trees, that’s a foundation for bobwhite quail management. Components of habitat will include year-round consideration to dusting areas, nesting, feeding and escape cover. If the habitat factors are there for seasonal food, water, shelter and space, then native predators are not an issue. One of the biggest mistakes made is managing for wildlife during the growing seasons and then cleaning up the farm with mowing the feeding and escape cover down so the place looks clean in the winter.

Quail need those standing vegetative food sources in the winter just as much for hiding places and protection from heavy rains, snow and ice. Native plants are essential, and too much non-native vegetation like fescue and Japanese honeysuckle can tangle up and block travel lanes for birds and small mammals. Luckily, there is a big push for pollinators in the current conservation movement and many of the land practices benefit both groups of wildlife.

So, the dog days of summer may be hot and a little uncomfortable for many activities, but it’s the perfect month to evaluate the habitat needs and research the necessities of bobwhite quail and other wanted wildlife.

Drop by our Shoal Creek Conservation Education Center (your local nature center) or any Missouri Department of Conservation office statewide to learn more. We also have materials and private lands conservationists who can assist your planning. Feel free to drop me an email as well, so I can direct you to some good resources. I hope you have some great wildlife viewing and experiences these upcoming summer days. – Jeff

Omega-3 Fatty Acids Omega-3 Fatty Acids

SMALL SERVINGS WITH BIG

BENEFITS

By Bradley Morris

While it’s easy to know about nutrients your body needs, sometimes it’s just as easy to forget to put them in your diet. A major one that seems to come up and – possibly because of its source – often gets overlooked is omega-3 fatty acids. While there’s no such thing as a miracle nutrient that will solve all of your health problems, omega-3 fatty acids do a lot of heavy lifting, and most people would benefit from just making sure they got a little more in their diets.

As always, your health is your own, and no article can give you advice for what is best for your health. Always consult your doctor or a nutritionist before making major lifestyle or dietary changes.

What are the benefits of omega-3 fatty acids? The list of benefits is actually fairly long: these acids promote heart and brain health, reduce triglycerides and reduce inflammation. Omega-3 fatty acids are also believed to help prevent diseases such as cancer, and there’s also a wide range of speculative benefits that haven’t been proven but are actively being researched, so it could be that there are even more benefits. One of the important points about omega-3 is that it is not produced by our bodies, so we have to obtain it from diets, so there isn’t any sort of physical activity to stimulate omega-3 in our bodies.

How much omega-3 is recommended in a day? Actually, not a whole lot. It does vary from person to person, but generally healthy adults are recommended something like 250-500 mg of omega-3 a day. How much is 250-500 mg? Well, a cooked filet of salmon can have about 1,000 mg of omega-3 a day – depending on your needs and the actual salmon filet, you could easily meet those requirements two to four times over. It is important to note you can get too much omega-3 – around 5,000 mg a day can cause excessive blood thinning and bleeding.

Fish isn’t for everyone, so are there other sources of omega-3 fatty acids? Firm tofu is a great source of omega-3, and if you have an allergy, don’t like fish or just need a break, it can be a great source for your diet. Other good sources are foods such as flaxseeds, walnuts and edamame. These sources aren’t generally as good of sources, in part because, as you can probably tell, you can’t really make a meal out of them. This isn’t a comprehensive list of non-fish sources; there are sources such as spinach and Brussels sprouts that have omega-3 in them, but they can still give a boost.

Not everyone can eat fish every day – I love fish and am not sure I could either – so topping your food with flaxseeds or walnuts or just giving yourself a side of spinach and Brussels sprouts can help you reach more consistent and long-term good health.

INVesting in HEART CARE

Freeman Health System Unveils Renovated Cardiac Cath Lab

By Kevin McClintock, Media Relations Coordinator for Freeman Health System

Therewas a time, decades ago, when Freeman Health System Cardiologist

Dr. Ryan Longnecker heavily relied on rolls of chest X-ray film to help diagnose a patient’s heart problem.

On July 7, Freeman’s director of cardiovascular service line was proud to exhibit Freeman Heart & Vascular Institute’s newly renovated Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory Room 1, which enables the Institute to provide more advanced care for Freeman’s cardiac patients.

The Institute, Dr. Longnecker said, is home to four cath labs; the renovated Room 1 opened in late June. In 2023, Freeman’s team of skilled surgeons completed 4,300 heartrelated procedures. Presently, five cases of varying complexity can be completed in just two hours.

“This is an exciting time for us,” he said. “We’ve continued to upgrade and enhance our equipment over the years with cuttingedge technology for the benefit of our patients, and also for the benefit of our staff.”

To that end, the ceiling-mounted, Phillipsmanufactured cath lab equipment reduces the radiation dosage a cardiac patient – and the cardiac team of four individuals working on that patient – receives by nearly 50%.

“The reason we’re so excited about this lab is not only is the picture quality amazing, but it actually uses less radiation to take pictures,” Dr. Longnecker said.

X-ray dosage has always been a concern for cardiac physicians and their teams working inside cath labs; it’s the reason why they wear lead-lined suits or aprons to protect themselves from radiation exposure. In the past, a reduction in radiation meant less reliable imaging. Thanks to the new technology, radiation from X-rays is reduced without negatively impacting image quality.

“The pictures this machine generates – they are just amazing,” Dr. Longnecker said. The system’s technology, he continued, can produce extremely high-quality images for angiograms.

“This is an advancement that we feel is very important for our patients and staff,” Dr. Longnecker continued. “The less radiation that we can be exposed to, the fewer amount of side effects there will be when working inside the lab.”

Additional benefits the system provides include:

• Creating three-dimensional representations of a patient’s heart and blood vessels.

• Overlaying those 3D images onto a realtime, two-dimensional fluoroscopic view of a patient’s heart helps create a detailed “roadmap” for Dr. Longnecker to follow.

• Due to quality and sharpness of images, fewer contrast (dye) injections are needed. The dye enhances the visibility of certain tissues or structures in X-rays or CT scans, but the dye can sometimes cause allergic reactions.

• Stent visualization technology so physicians can see old stents inside arteries and help them more easily land new stents.

• Can estimate the size of a blockage, helping the physician determine an optimal-sized stent.

The renovated cath lab will only enhance Freeman’s Level 1 STEMI designation, in which Freeman’s door-to-balloon time is less than 55 minutes, lower than the 90-minute recommendation.

“We’re so excited to have this technology and to bring it to the Joplin area,” Dr. Longnecker said, “It’s really second to none.”

Freeman Heart & Vascular Institute provides nationally recognized care for Joplin and surrounding areas. Freeman offers their patients rapid, expert cardiology, cardiovascular and thoracic care all in one convenient location. Services include cardiology clinics, preventive care, emergency interventions, diagnostics, open-heart surgeries, structural heart clinic and cardiac rehabilitation. The facility, a three-story wing adjacent to Freeman Hospital West, has three state-of-the-art operating suites and four cardiovascular catheterization labs. Please call 417.347.5000 for more information or to schedule an appointment.

Al-Anon—Weekly group meetings for persons affected by another person’s drinking. Call 888.4AL.ANON (888.425.2666) for meeting locations or go to Missouri-AlAnon.org for more info.

Narcotics Anonymous – 24-hour helpline: 800.913.2720.

Freeman Health System

Joplin, MO

All events are free and open to the public, unless noted; support group meetings are cancelled on days Joplin R-VIII Schools close due to inclement weather.

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

Aug. 6: Freeman Cancer Support Group, 2-3 p.m., Freeman Cornell-Beshore Cancer Institute, 3415 McIntosh Circle. Call Kelley Wheeler at 417.347.4000 for more information.

Aug. 7: Freeman Parenting/Children Resources Group, noon-1 p.m., Freeman Women’s Pavilion, 1532 W. 32nd St., First Floor Conference Rooms. Guest Speaker Kaycie Woodward, Children’s Division Prevention Team, will demonstrate how infants are affected through different scenarios with baby simulating dolls. Contact Madison Burkhart, Freeman Community Health Worker and group facilitator, at mgburkhart@freemanhealth.com for more information.

Aug. 7: Freeman Early Detection Screenings, 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 thyroid ultrasound and osteoporosis risk assessment. Fees vary. To schedule an appointment, please call 417.347.6555.

Aug. 19: Ozark Center Daytime Autism Support Group, 12:30-1:30 p.m., Bill & Virginia Leffen Center for Autism, 2808 S. Picher Ave. Open to people with autism, parents and caregivers. Call 417.347.7850 for more information.

Aug. 19: Freeman Bariatric Weight-loss Support Group, 5:30-6:30 p.m., Freeman Business Center Conference Rooms, 3220 McClelland Blvd (back entrance). Designed to help those who have had bariatric surgery. For more information, call the Freeman Bariatric Center at 417.347.1266, or go to https://www.freemanhealth.com/ specialty/bariatric-surgery.

National Adult Literacy Action - For information on NALA, call 417.782.2646, email Jessica@joplinnala.org or visit www.joplinnala.org. Located at 123 S. Main St. in Joplin. Hours: Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday: 8:30 a.m.5 p.m., and Thursday and Friday: 8:30 a.m.-noon.

Nevada, MO

Aug. 26: Rich Hill Family Medical Clinic Screenings, 11 a.m.-noon., Kern Senior Center. Free health screenings are offered every fourth Tuesday of the month to residents of Rich Hill.

Integris Baptist Regional Health Center, Grove, OK

INTEGRIS Baptist Regional Health Center, Miami, OK - For more information, visit www.integrisok.com/baptistregional-health-center-Miami-ok.

Every Tuesday: Free blood pressure and glucose screenings provided by INTEGRIS Regency Home Care and Hospice. First Tuesday: Commerce Nutrition Center, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Second Tuesday: Nine Tribes Tower, 10-11 a.m. Third Tuesday: Miami Senior Center, 10-11 a.m. Fourth Tuesday: INTEGRIS Baptist Village, 9-10 a.m.

Aug. 5: Alzheimer’s Support Group meets first Tuesday monthly, 11 a.m., Generations fourth floor visiting room. Call 918.542.3391.

Crisis Text Line Text 741741

Free 24/7 support for those in crisis to create a plan to stay safe and healthy.

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 988 has been designated as the new three-digit dialing code. www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org

First Joplin Expungement Event a Success

For about 60 people, July 4 was a day felonies were cleaned off their records.

By Bridget Bauer

This year on Independence Day, the Joplin Police Department and McPherson Law Firm teamed up and hosted an expungement event at The ROCC.

Not only was it the first time this type of event was held in Joplin, but it was also the first time in the country a police department and defense team partnered to host an expungement event.

“I found that out from Chief (Richard) Pearson,” Teddy Steen, executive director of ASCENT Recovery Residences, said. “He googled it or used AI, and Joplin was the only place to pop up. It was a pretty awesome event.”

The event was so highly anticipated that people showed up at 5:30 in the morning. Pearson said 30 people were already in line when he arrived at The ROCC at 8 a.m. for the 9 a.m. door opening. While the expungement law can clear misdemeanors, this event was focused on those with felonies because those charges affect background checks.

“I’m a firm believer that people make mistakes or bad decisions,” Pearson said. “But, if you are 50 and struggled when you were 25, you shouldn’t have to still be paying for a bad decision or mistake. Felonies affect people’s lives, and they can’t do certain things. Not only does clearing the felony off a record help the individuals, it helps their families and the police department.”

Missouri law has certain criteria for a felony to be expunged. In addition to a three-year waiting period,

other conditions are free from probation and parole and the felony being off the person’s record. Also, certain felonies will never be expunged, including homicides, DWIs, sexual crimes, cross burning and more. Because of the conditions for expungement, several people didn’t qualify, and the expungements were only for those felonies in Jasper County.

“On that day, 241 people signed in,” Pearson said. “Eight to 10 people thought they had felonies but only had misdemeanors. Expungement clears everything off databases of a person’s record of conviction. Mugshots are also taken down.”

Some people weren’t able to be helped because of the waiting period and were able to get coupons for a discount on the lawyers’ rate. Judd McPherson of McPherson Law Firm suggested July 4 because of the significance of Independence Day. He and his daughter also did the paperwork pro bono for the people they were able to assist.

Pearson would like to host more expungement events and would like to hold at least two a year and possibly three to four events a year. The events are labor intensive, and defense lawyers are also needed to make the events a success. He is reaching out to other attorneys to see if there is interest.

“There are some things we want to shore up for next time,” Steen said. “Registering with us will help with screening, and we can weed out those who don’t qualify. I think people also feel comfortable at The ROCC.”

Brent Hardesty

Hardesty TechConnect

Computer Repair Video Converting

Brent Hardesty

Computer Repair | Video Converting

417.793.4955

417-793-4955

HardestyTechConnect@gmail.com

HardestyTechConnect@gmail.com

Sanborn Financial Coaching, LLC

Barry Sanborn

Ramsey Personal Finance Coach

417.499.8805

missourimoneycoach.com

barrysanborn@hotmail.com

7th

La Bonita Café & Pupusas

Specializing in artisan Salvadoran pupusas.

Located at the Joplin Empire Market every Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Follow us on Facebook to stay updated on where our food truck will be next!

623.570.2759

HeleneSheelerJohnson@gmail.com

HeleneSheelerJohnson.com www.therightmed.com