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Want to sponsor your business in JOMO Jive? Send your inquiry to matt@jomojive.com

Good Morning, Joplin. Quick note before we dive in—JOMO Jive has grown a lot over the past year (over 4,000 readers), and we’ve been putting in more time to make it better, more useful, and a more consistent resource for the community.

JOMO Jive has always been free, and it always will be. But if it’s become part of your routine and you regularly read it and find value in it, we added a simple way to support what we’re building. It’s totally optional, but it genuinely helps us keep improving and expanding what we do here.

Click here to support JOMO Jive.

Now, enough of that…

In today’s JOMO Jive:

• Joplin Outlaws Cancel Season

• Free Community Pet Vaccine Clinic

• JACC Board of Directors Nominees

Let’s get to it.

— Matt Thompson

P.S. If you find something useful in today’s Jive, please share it with someone who eats a daily bowl of pistachios.

🐐 Empire Market’s 8th Birthday Bash + Goats in the Garden

Saturday, April 25 | 10:00 AM–2:00 PM | Joplin Empire Market

Cake, goats, live music, and a whole lot of local love—Empire Market is turning 8! Celebrate with a fun-filled spring day featuring Goats in the Garden, a birthday card signing, and sweet treats from Handmade for You. Yes… there will be goats. And yes… Tortellini the Tortoise is making an appearance too.

🛍️ Shop all three market halls with fresh produce, meats, artisan goods & more
🎶 Live music from Dr. G (morning) & The Forget Me Nots (afternoon)
☕ Coffee, ready-to-eat food, photo booth & new merch drops

🎟️ Free to attend — bring the whole family!

SPONSORED BY GAMBINO’S PIZZA

When dinner needs to be easy and a crowd-pleaser, Gambino's Pizza has you covered. From piping hot specialty pizzas loaded with toppings to their classic crispy crust and fan-favorite pasta dishes, this is the kind of local spot that just hits every time. Feeding the family? Covered. Game night? Handled. Don’t forget the wings, cheesy breadsticks, and desserts to round it out.

Skip the stress and go with a sure thing tonight—order online or swing by and grab your favorites fresh out of the oven.

⚾ Joplin Outlaws Cancel 2026 Season Amid Stadium Dispute

The Joplin Outlaws will not take the field in 2026 after announcing the cancellation of their upcoming season, citing an ongoing dispute over access to Joe Becker Stadium. According to team owner Ken Clark, issues with the stadium lease escalated in recent months, ultimately preventing the team from securing a home field in time for the summer season. The Mid-America League acknowledged the situation, noting disappointment in how it unfolded and deferring further comment to team ownership.

Clark has stated the organization plans to pursue legal action, maintaining that the team did not violate its lease agreement. Despite the setback, Outlaws management has worked to place players with other teams across the league, with many already finding new opportunities. The team, which won back-to-back championships in 2024 and 2025, hopes to return in 2027—but relocation remains a possibility as the situation continues to develop.

🎓 MSSU Student Research Symposium Showcases Innovation

Wednesday, April 22 | 12:30–1:30 PM | Billingsly Student Center Ballroom

Curious what local students are working on behind the scenes? The Student Research Symposium at Missouri Southern State University offers a front-row look at research, creativity, and innovation across a wide range of disciplines. This free, public event invites the community to explore student-led projects through poster presentations covering everything from business and technology to health sciences and the humanities.

Open to all, the symposium highlights work completed through classes, internships, and independent study, with students competing for awards across seven categories. Stop by to meet the presenters, ask questions, and see how the next generation of thinkers is tackling real-world ideas—right here in Joplin.

🐾 Free Community Pet Vaccine Clinic

Thursday, April 23 | 9:00 AM–12:00 PM | Joplin Salvation Army

Keeping your pets healthy just got easier. The Joplin Humane Society is hosting a free walk-up vaccine clinic at the The Salvation Army, offering essential rabies and distemper vaccinations for up to 200 pets—no appointment needed. This initiative aims to make preventative care more accessible for local families while helping protect the broader community.

Thanks to partners like Petco Love, the clinic continues to expand its reach and impact. As an added bonus, the first 50 pets will receive free microchips (limit one per family), courtesy of MuttNation Foundation, with additional microchips available for $20 (cash only). If your pet needs updated vaccines, this is a simple, no-cost way to get it done.

🌎 Earth Day Sustainability Conference

Friday, April 24 | 9:00 AM–12:45 PM | Billingsly Student Center Ballroom

Celebrate Earth Day with a morning of ideas, education, and community collaboration at the Earth Day Sustainability Conference hosted by Missouri Southern State University. Open to all ages, this campus-and-community event brings together local organizations, environmental leaders, and educators to explore sustainability topics that impact the Four-States region and beyond.

The event features expert speakers, interactive booths, and a bonus session covering everything from e-waste and water quality to plastic pollution and sustainable living practices. Attendees can also connect with local groups like Wildcat Glades, the Joplin Recycling Center, and H2Ozarks, plus learn about regional initiatives shaping the future of environmental responsibility. Whether you’re passionate about conservation or just curious how to live a little greener, this is a solid place to start.

🏢 Chamber Announces Board of Directors Nominees

Election Cycle: April 2026–March 2029

The Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce has released its official slate of nominees for upcoming Board of Directors terms. Nominated for new three-year terms are Tami Marlay (First American Title), Kara Coleman (EaglePicher), and Luke Gibson (Glenn-Gibson Group).

Also approved for second three-year terms are Ben McNelly (Full Bore Studios) and John Hunter (Gusano’s). Additional candidates may still be added through a petition process requiring signatures from at least 20 Chamber member representatives, with a submission deadline of 4:00 PM on May 4. If no additional nominations are submitted, the current slate will be declared elected.

🏠 JHAP-3 Applications Close After Overwhelming Demand

The City of Joplin has officially closed applications for the Joplin Homebuyer Assistance Program (JHAP-3) after receiving an unprecedented number of submissions. City officials say the volume of applications is expected to fully exhaust the program’s available funding, prompting the immediate halt.

Applicants who have already received a Household Eligibility notice will continue through the process on a first-come, first-served basis, though funding is not guaranteed until a property is approved. Those who applied but have not yet been approved will now be placed on a waitlist in case additional funding becomes available. City leaders acknowledged the strong demand and emphasized their commitment to assisting as many approved households as possible while keeping residents updated on any future opportunities.

Tuesday: 🌡️ 52 | 74 💨 

Wednesday: 🌡️ 55 | 72 ☁️ 

Thursday: 🌡️ 62 | 75 🌧️ 55%

Recap:

⚾️ Baseball (29-13)
Friday 4/17 at HOME vs Missouri Western State University | W 6-3
Saturday 4/18 at HOME vs Missouri Western State University | W 6-4
Sunday 4/19 at HOME vs Missouri Western State University | W 12-11

🥎 Softball (39-7)
Friday 4/17 at HOME vs University of Central Missouri | L 7-5, W 4-3
Saturday 4/18 at HOME vs Rogers State Univeristy (Senior Day) | W 2-0, W 4-2

👟 Men’s & Women’s Track & Field
Sunday 4/19 at Pittsburg State University | Recap

Upcoming:

⚾️ Baseball (29-13)
Tuesday 4/21 at Pittsburg State University | 3:00 PM
Friday 4/24 at Saginaw Valley State University | 12:00 PM
Saturday 4/25 at Saginaw Valley State University | 12:00 PM
Saturday 4/25 at Truman State University | 3:00 PM

🥎 Softball (39-7)
Friday 4/24 at HOME vs Newman University | 3:00 PM, 5:00 PM
Saturday 4/25 at HOME vs University of Central Oklahoma | 1:00 PM, 3:00 PM

⛳️ Women’s Golf
Monday 4/20 - Wednesday 4/22 at MIAA Conference Championship

👟 Men’s & Women’s Track & Field
Friday 4/24 at University of Arkansas

Wednesday

🌿 Spring Foraging with Good Naturing: Join a guided foraging walk from 6:00–8:00 PM starting at the Wildcat Glades Education Cottage, where you’ll learn to identify edible plants and natural features. This pay-what-you-can class (ages 15+) is led by an experienced forager and supports the Wildcat Glades Nature Group.

🎮 Nintendo Trivia Night: Test your gaming knowledge at 7:30 PM at B&B Theatres Joplin 7 & B-Roll Bowling with this free, all-ages trivia event. Arrive early to grab a spot, compete for prizes, and enjoy food and drinks while you play.

Friday

🎶 March to August Live in the Park: Enjoy a free outdoor concert at 6:30 PM at Big Spring Park in Neosho, featuring a roots-driven string duo blending Americana, alt-country, and bluegrass. Bring a lawn chair or blanket, picnic with the family, and enjoy music plus sidewalk chalk fun for the kids.

🎨 Closing Bidding Party | Small Works Auction 2026: Wrap up the Small Works art auction on April 24 from 5:30–7:30 PM at Spiva’s Sharon & Lance Beshore Gallery while bidding on unique, local artwork. Celebrate the creative community and support the arts with an evening dedicated to one-of-a-kind pieces and meaningful impact.

🌱 Carl Junction Cultivator Garden Club Plant Sale: Stock up on homegrown plants and vegetables at this 2-day sale (Fri & Sat) in Carl Junction, featuring garden-ready finds at very reasonable prices. Support local growers and get your garden off to a strong start this season.

🌱 Neosho FFA Annual Plant Sale: Shop student-grown plants and support local agriculture April 24 (4:00–6:30 PM) and April 25 (9:00 AM–2:00 PM) at the NSD Ag Center on the Junior High Campus. Find a variety of greenhouse-grown plants ready for your garden while supporting hardworking FFA students.

🚗 Cruisin’ Carthage 2026: Check out an impressive lineup of classic and custom cars at this free community event hosted by Southwest Missouri Bank. Enjoy great food, live music, and chances to win cool prizes while soaking in the car show atmosphere.

We’d love to hear your feedback! Reply to this newsletter or take the poll to let us know how we’re doing!

Want to sponsor JOMO Jive? Send your inquiry to matt@jomojive.com

THANKS!

Thank you for reading JOMO Jive today. See you again Friday!

In partnership with

Want to sponsor your business in JOMO Jive? Send your inquiry to matt@jomojive.com

Good Morning, Joplin. Ever wonder why certain adjectives are always used a certain way? You know… avid reader, vested interest, rampant inflation… These are called collocations (col-oh-KAY-shun) and they help us communicate faster because our brain recalls these ready-made chunks of words instead of stringing sentences together one word at a time.

My personal favorite thing about collocations is the fact that a “fat chance” and a “slim chance” are both equally unlikely.

In today’s JOMO Jive:

• Tattoo Blood

• Joplin Spring Cleaning

• Art for Utility Boxes

Let’s get to it.

— Matt Thompson

P.S. If you find something useful in today’s Jive, please share it with someone who loves local politics.

🏃‍♂️ Freeman 5K & 1-Mile Walk for Autism

Saturday, April 18 | 8:00 AM | Bill & Virginia Leffen Center for Autism
📍 2808 S Picher Ave, Joplin

Lace up for a great cause! The annual Freeman 5K & Walk for Autism brings the community together to support autism awareness with a timed 5K and a family-friendly 1-mile walk—both kicking off at 8 AM.

🏅 Finishers medals for all participants
👟 Chip-timed, USATF-certified course
👨‍👩‍👧 Walk options for all ages (kids 2 & under free)
🏆 Awards + team recognition for participation & fundraising

🎟️ 5K: $40 | Walk: $0–$20

Packet pickup available April 17 & race morning. Run, walk, and support an incredible cause!

SPONSORED BY CONNECT2CULTURE

🎭 Support the arts you love with the C2C Circle

From unforgettable performances to community-driven creativity, Connect2Culture is shaping Joplin’s cultural future—and you can be part of it. By joining the C2C Circle, your annual gift of $50 or more directly fuels local arts, supports regional talent, and brings world-class entertainment to our community. Plus, members enjoy exclusive perks like special events, updates, and more. Whether you give once or throughout the year, your impact lasts far beyond the stage. Learn more about C2C Circle.

🎨 Call for Artists: “Art: Outside the Box” Returns to Downtown Joplin

Submissions Open April 14 | Deadline June 8

Downtown Joplin is about to get a creative upgrade—and artists of all kinds are invited to be part of it. The Downtown Joplin Alliance, in partnership with the City of Joplin, Spiva Center for the Arts, and the Joplin Arts District, is now accepting submissions for its “Art: Outside the Box” initiative. The project will transform over two dozen utility boxes across downtown into colorful, eye-catching public art installations using professionally printed vinyl wraps.

This opportunity is open to artists and creatives of all experience levels, from painters and photographers to poets and designers—no prior public art experience required. Participants can submit up to two designs, with $2,000 in total prizes awarded across youth and adult categories. It’s a chance to bring more color, personality, and creativity to everyday spaces while leaving a lasting mark on the city’s landscape.

🧹 Joplin May Day Spring Cleaning Rally Set for May 1

Friday, May 1 | 9:30 AM–12:00 PM | Joplin City Hall

Joplin is gearing up for a busy season of visitors—and the community is being called on to help make a strong first impression. The Joplin May Day Spring Cleaning is a citywide effort to clean up streets, public spaces, and neighborhoods ahead of increased traffic tied to Route 66’s 100th anniversary and World Cup travel. Hosted by the Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce and the City of Joplin, the event invites businesses, organizations, and residents to roll up their sleeves and pitch in.

Volunteers will meet at Joplin City Hall at 9:30 AM, then head out to assigned cleanup areas from 10:00 AM to noon. Groups are encouraged to sign up in advance and bring coworkers, friends, or family members along. Even if you can’t attend the organized effort, residents are encouraged to clean up their own neighborhoods—because even a few minutes can make a noticeable difference in keeping Joplin clean, welcoming, and ready for the spotlight.

🩸 New Tattoo Guidelines Make Blood Donation Easier

The Community Blood Center of the Ozarks has announced updated tattoo guidelines that will allow more people to donate blood without waiting. Thanks to new guidance from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, individuals who receive tattoos at state-regulated facilities—including here in Missouri—can now donate immediately, as long as proper safety standards (sterile needles and single-use ink) are followed.

For tattoos received in unregulated states or unlicensed facilities, the waiting period has also been reduced—from 12 months down to just 3 months. Officials say many people wrongly assume they’re ineligible to donate after getting a tattoo, and this change aims to remove that barrier at a time when blood donations are critically needed. As always, donors should ensure the tattoo or piercing site is fully healed before giving blood.

🏛️ New Joplin City Council Members Sworn In, Leadership Selected

Joplin officially welcomed a new group of city leaders this week, as Brian Cowles Sr., Mary Price, Eli Moran, and Rob O’Brian were sworn in during Monday’s City Council meeting, alongside re-elected Councilmember Josh DeTar. Following the ceremony, the Council selected Rob O’Brian to serve as Mayor and Keenan Cortez as Mayor Pro Tem, both in two-year terms.

The meeting also recognized the service of outgoing councilmembers Doris Carlin, Mark Farnham, Doug Lawson, and Gary Shaw, honoring their contributions to the community. Special recognition was given to Shaw for his 24 years of service on the City Council, along with his involvement on numerous local boards—marking a significant legacy of public service in Joplin.

Friday: 🌡️ 58 | 79 ⛈️ 75%

Saturday: 🌡️ 45 | 60 🌧️ 85%

Sunday: 🌡️ 41 | 69 ☀️ 

Recap:

⚾️ Baseball (26-13)
Tuesday 4/14 at HOME vs Newman University | W 16-2

🥎 Softball (36-6)
Saturday 4/11 vs Northwest Missouri State University | W 6-1, L 5-2

⛳️ Men’s Golf
Wednesday 4/15 at MIAA Conference Championship | Recap

Upcoming:

⚾️ Baseball (26-13)
Friday 4/17 at HOME vs Missouri Western State University | 1:00 PM
Saturday 4/18 at HOME vs Missouri Western State University | 1:00 PM
Sunday 4/19 at HOME vs Missouri Western State University | 1:00 PM

🥎 Softball (36-6)
Friday 4/17 at HOME vs University of Central Missouri | 11:30 AM, 1:30 PM
Saturday 4/18 at HOME vs Rogers State Univeristy (Senior Day) | 1:00 PM, 3:00 PM

⛳️ Women’s Golf
Monday 4/20 at MIAA Conference Championship

👟 Men’s & Women’s Track & Field
Sunday 4/19 at Pittsburg State University

Friday, Saturday, & Sunday

🎭 Before Oz – Webb City High School Theatre: Discover the story behind The Wizard of Oz as Webb City students bring L. Frank Baum’s inspirations to life at Cardinal Theatre. Enjoy this creative performance for just $7 adults and $5 students/seniors in a fun, family-friendly setting.

Friday

🎨 Studio 55: Guided Class: Adults 55+ are invited to a relaxed, instructor-led art session from 2:00–4:00 PM, featuring a step-by-step spring sunset acrylic painting project. Enjoy a welcoming, social environment while building creative skills for just $10 per session.

Saturday

🌸 Spring Market at Christine’s Vineyard: Spend a relaxing afternoon at the vineyard from 12:00–5:00 PM, featuring local vendors, permanent jewelry, photography, and delicious eats from Creek Crew BBQ. Stroll the grounds, shop small, and soak in the cozy springtime atmosphere with friends.

🏃‍♂️ Dogwood Run 5K: Lace up for the 44th annual Dogwood Run in Neosho, featuring a scenic course through blooming dogwood-lined streets starting at Big Spring Park. Run or walk with the whole family—first 100 finishers score a dogwood sapling, and there’s even a relaxed “Cap & Walk” option for a more laid-back experience.

🏃‍♀️ Freeman 5K & Walk for Autism: Join this meaningful race and walk at 8:00 AM at the Bill & Virginia Leffen Center for Autism, with options for a timed 5K or a family-friendly 1-mile walk. Support a great cause while earning medals, team recognition, and enjoying a community-focused morning.

🎶 Jam the Square: Enjoy an evening of acoustic music, local shopping, and community vibes around the Carthage Courthouse Square from 5:00–7:00 PM. Stroll, listen to a variety of performers, and support local businesses while soaking in the sounds of downtown.

🎬 Lights Camera Auction – JACS Premiere Event: Dress to impress for a glamorous night of cocktails, small plates, and exciting live and silent auctions at McAuley Catholic High School. Support Joplin Area Catholic Schools while bidding on exclusive items and helping fund technology upgrades that benefit students and classrooms.

🌍 World Music & Cuisine Festival: Experience global flavors and live performances from 5:00–7:30 PM at Young Gymnasium on the MSSU campus. Enjoy unlimited food samples and cultural music for $15 ($10 for kids under 12 and MSSU students) while celebrating international cuisine and community.

🦋 Moth Market: Patient Zero: Dive into a curated market of the strange and unique on in Joplin, featuring vintage curios, handmade goods, and rare oddities you won’t find anywhere else. This one-of-a-kind shopping experience is perfect for anyone who loves the eclectic and unconventional.

Sunday

🎨 Paint Your Hat Workshop: Get hands-on and design your own custom hat at this fun, beginner-friendly workshop from 1:00–3:00 PM at Christine’s Vineyard. For $35, all materials are included—just bring your creativity and enjoy a relaxed afternoon with friends.

Friday

Low Co Duo
Christine’s Vineyard | 6:00 PM

Dillon Leggett
HoneyPop’s Bar & Grill | 6:00 PM

Dustin Treiber
W H Farm Cafe Mining Company | 6:00 PM

Tragic Prelude
Beard Engine Brewing | 6:30 PM

Morgan Rohr
Osage Spring | 8:00 PM

Big Smitty
Happy Jack’s Tavern | 8:00 PM

Saturday

Vagabond Grove
Joplin Empire Market | 12:00 PM

Zane Grimes
Mi Torito, Galena | 4:30 PM

Analog Rewind
Keltoi Winery | 6:00 PM

Diversity Band
Wyandotte Nation Casino | 7:00 PM

Blues Doctors
Osage Spring | 8:00 PM

The Lost Dogs
Grand Lake Casino | 8:00 PM

Tantric with Rage Is My Rival and If I Were King
Blackthorn Pizza & Pub | 9:00 PM

Sunday

Bobby DeGonia, Stonehorse, Western Justice, and Todd East
Kicks Bar & Grill | 1:00 PM

We’d love to hear your feedback! Reply to this newsletter or take the poll to let us know how we’re doing!

Want to sponsor JOMO Jive? Send your inquiry to matt@jomojive.com

THANKS!

Thank you for reading JOMO Jive today. See you again Tuesday!

In partnership with

Want to sponsor your business in JOMO Jive? Send your inquiry to matt@jomojive.com

Good Morning, Joplin. The Artemis II astronauts are due for splashdown off the coast of California tonight around 7:00 PM CST. Now I wonder if they’re just like the rest of us and will leave their spacesuits in the corner of their room for two weeks before doing their post-trip laundry… Oh, that’s just me? Nevermind.

In today’s JOMO Jive:

• North Heights Market in the Park

• Cars, Coffee, Live Music, and Cats

• Prom Photos

Let’s get to it.

— Matt Thompson

P.S. If you find something useful in today’s Jive, please share it with someone who is a complete space nerd.

Celebrate the season of renewal with one of our most anticipated events of the spring. Botox & Blooms is an elevated, feel-good experience where beauty, wellness, and connection come together in a relaxed, welcoming environment.

Enjoy exclusive event-only pricing on select services and products, meet with our expert providers, and experience treatments designed to refresh and rejuvenate. Sip, savor, and take part in light bites, drinks, giveaways, and a special raffle—all while building your own custom flower bouquet to take home.

Space is limited for this signature La Boussole event—call to reserve your place and join us for an afternoon of beauty, balance, and blooming confidence.

Call 417-434-4449 to reserve your spot.

SPONSORED BY GAMBINO’S PIZZA

When dinner needs to be easy and a crowd-pleaser, Gambino's Pizza has you covered. From piping hot specialty pizzas loaded with toppings to their classic crispy crust and fan-favorite pasta dishes, this is the kind of local spot that just hits every time. Feeding the family? Covered. Game night? Handled. Don’t forget the wings, cheesy breadsticks, and desserts to round it out.

Skip the stress and go with a sure thing tonight—order online or swing by and grab your favorites fresh out of the oven.

🌿 North Heights Spring Market in the Park is Back

Saturday, April 11 | 9:00 AM–3:00 PM | Michael & Jeri Lynn Joseph Family Park

Joplin’s newest community event is launching in a big way—the North Heights Spring Market in the Park is set to bring together local vendors, live music, and hands-on fun at Michael & Jeri Lynn Joseph Family Park. With 30+ vendors already signed up (and more joining daily), this first-ever market is shaping up to be a full day of shopping, food, and community connection.

Live music will keep the energy going all morning, featuring Keyven Dunn (10 AM), Abiel Chavez (11 AM), and Zane Grimes (noon). In the afternoon, the North Heights Neighborhood Group and Wildcat Conservation will host a free gardening program for both kids and adults—complete with pots, soil, and seeds so you can create your own plant to take home.

And come hungry—this lineup delivers. Expect everything from fried fish and smashburgers to kettle corn, baked goods, specialty drinks, and sweet treats from a wide range of local vendors. Whether you’re browsing booths, grabbing lunch, or just enjoying the music in the park, this is a strong kickoff for what could become a new local favorite.

🎸 North Mississippi Allstars Live at The Coda Concert House

Tuesday, April 14 | 7:00–9:00 PM (Doors 6:30 PM)

Experience an unforgettable night of blues-driven sound as the North Mississippi Allstars perform an intimate house concert at The Coda Concert House. Formed by brothers Luther and Cody Dickinson, the group has spent nearly 30 years blending deep-rooted Mississippi blues and folk traditions into their signature “Modern Mississippi Music,” sharing stages with legends like RL Burnside, Mavis Staples, Robert Plant, and Buddy Guy.

This unique, up-close performance begins at 7:00 PM (doors open at 6:30 PM), with a $95 suggested minimum donation that goes directly to support the artists. Reservations are required—email to secure your spot and receive full event details, including the exact address, directions, and parking info.

📸 Pose & Promenade Offers Free Prom Photos for Local Students

Saturday, April 11 | 3:00–5:00 PM | Nexus an OCH Event Center

Prom night just got even better. Pose & Promenade is giving local students a chance to capture the moment with a free professional photo experience before heading off to the big night. Hosted at Nexus an OCH Event Center in partnership with Likeable Likeness Photography, this event offers a relaxed, welcoming space to get high-quality portraits without the usual cost or stress.

Students attending prom on April 11—regardless of school—can stop by for one complimentary professional digital photo, plus access to multiple indoor photo setups for portraits, group shots, and family photos. No appointment is needed, and families are encouraged to join in. Additional prints will be available for just $5, making this an easy, memorable way to celebrate a milestone night.

🤝 You Belong in Joplin Hosts April Community Meeting

Wednesday, April 22 | 12:00–1:00 PM | Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce

Looking to get more connected and make a positive impact locally? You Belong in Joplin (YBIJ) is hosting its next monthly meeting at the Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce, inviting community members to come together for conversation, collaboration, and action. Whether you’ve been involved before or are just getting started, there’s a seat at the table for you.

YBIJ is a citizen-driven group focused on fostering belonging and inclusion across Joplin. Originally formed as an Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion workgroup through the Chamber, the group continues its mission today by supporting and amplifying voices from diverse and traditionally marginalized communities. In addition to monthly meetings, YBIJ helps lead community events like the annual “You Belong” Third Thursday—creating space for connection, understanding, and meaningful change.

🛍️ Miss Daisy’s Semi-Annual Warehouse Sale

Score 40–75% off furniture, décor, and clothing April 10–11 from 9:00 AM–4:00 PM, with unique finds and last-chance pieces throughout the warehouse. Come early for the best selection and be ready to haul your treasures—once it’s gone, it’s gone.

Check out their website here!

🏛️ Historic Preservation Symposium Coming This May

Joplin will host the third annual Missouri Historic Preservation Symposium this spring, bringing together experts, community leaders, and preservation advocates to explore how historic spaces can drive economic growth. Presented by the Missouri State Historic Preservation Office and partners including the City of Joplin and Missouri Southern State University, this year’s theme—“The Road Ahead: Fueling the Economy through Historic Preservation”—will highlight everything from tax credits to redevelopment strategies.

The event kicks off with an opening reception on May 13 at the historic Schifferdecker and Zelleken homes, followed by a full day of programming on May 14 at Missouri Southern State University. Attendees can expect keynote speakers, breakout tracks focused on community preservation and historic tax credits, and a special Route 66 exhibit celebrating 100 years of the Mother Road. Registration is required by April 30, with limited space available. Click here to register!

Friday: 🌡️ 59 | 72 🌧️ 90%

Saturday: 🌡️ 60 | 80 ⛅️ 

Sunday: 🌡️ 64 | 71 🌧️ 80%

Friday

🚚 Kick Off – Right off Route 66: Food Truck Friday returns to Central Park in Carthage from 11:00 AM–9:00 PM with a full day of food trucks, local vendors, and community fun. Stick around for live music from Ozark Storm (6–9 PM) and a Cruise-In featuring classic cars (5–9 PM) to cap off the evening.

🦁 Wild Adventures – A Smart Zoo Experience: Experience a one-of-a-kind animatronic zoo at the Webb City Little League Fields from 2:00–7:00 PM, featuring lions, dinosaurs, a 40-ft King Cobra, and more. Enjoy VR aquarium adventures, fossil digs, soft play zones, and sweet treats—admission requires a cookie purchase per person.

Saturday

🚴‍♂️ Tour de Llama Cycling Adventure: Ride a 15-mile urban loop through Joplin and the Frisco Trail starting at 8:30 AM from Empire Market, with stops at both Crazy Llama Coffee locations. Your $25 registration includes a t-shirt and drink discounts, plus a fun, all-ages ride that wraps up with shopping and eats at Empire Market.

🚗 Cars and Coffee: Nighttime Takeover: Cruise into this evening car meet on April 11 from 6:00–9:00 PM featuring everything from classics to JDM builds, trucks, and bikes. Enjoy food, music, photographers, and laid-back vibes in a family-friendly setting.

🌸 “Settle Into Spring” Pop Up Market at The Grove: Spend a beautiful spring day shopping local vendors and crafters, enjoying live music, and grabbing a bite to eat at The Grove in Carthage. Bring your friends and family and soak in the season at this laid-back, community-focused market.

🎈 🎉 Character Meet & Greet at Claire’s Playhouse: Bring the kids out for a fun-filled day with Bluey, Bingo, Mickey, Minnie, Chase, and Skye from 8:00 AM–2:00 PM. Dance, play, snap photos, and enjoy interactive fun—tickets are $15 for kids (including infants), with one free adult per child.

🎈 🎨 Mommy & Me Paint Party: Get creative together at this instructor-led highland cow painting class at Through Grace, with sessions at 11:00 AM and 2:30 PM. For $15 per person (2-ticket minimum), each participant takes home an 8x10 painting plus a free family photo—perfect for a fun, memory-making day with the kids.

Saturday and Sunday

🐱 Cat Show at the Newton County Fairgrounds: See up to 35 cat breeds and nearly 180 cats compete in multiple judging rings April 11–12 from 9:00 AM–4:00 PM in Neosho. Enjoy agility contests, a cat costume contest, vendors, and family-friendly fun with plenty of chances to meet these feline stars.

Sunday

🎨 Second Sunday at Spiva: Explore Spiva Center for the Arts from 1:00–4:00 PM with free access to multiple exhibits, including PhotoSpiva and interactive gallery experiences. It’s a relaxed, come-and-go opportunity to enjoy local art and creativity on your schedule.

Friday

Zane Grimes
Christine’s Vineyard | 6:00 PM

Vagabond Grove
W H Farm Cafe Mining Co | 6:00 PM

Wilkie Jay
Bricks & Brews | 7:00 PM

Brad Hemphill
Joplin Elks Lodge | 7:00 PM

Honkeytonk Renovators
Grand Lake Casino | 8:00 PM

The Downbeat
Cherokee Casino Grove | 8:00 PM

Saturday

Luke Smith
Joplin Empire Market | 10:00 AM

Dr G
Joplin Empire Market | 12:00 PM

Left of Center
HoneyPop’s Bar & Grill | 4:30 PM

JR Neal The Piano Man
Christine’s Vineyard | 6:00 PM

Natalie Prauser
Keltoi Winery | 6:00 PM

Rock for Rescue Benefit Concert
Kansas Crossing Casino | 6:30 PM

Dustin Trieber
Turtleheads Raw Bar | 7:00 PM

Fuel
Buffalo Run Casino | 8:00 PM

Heather White and the Little White Liars
Grand Lake Casino | 8:00 PM

Simply Seger Tribute Band
River Bend Casino | 8:00 PM

RetroRockerz
Downstream Casino | 8:30 PM

The Bison
Buffalo Run Casino | 8:30 PM

We’d love to hear your feedback! Reply to this newsletter or take the poll to let us know how we’re doing!

Want to sponsor JOMO Jive? Send your inquiry to matt@jomojive.com

THANKS!

Thank you for reading JOMO Jive today. See you again Tuesday!

Good Morning, Joplin. The Mother Road is calling. The Route 66 Drive-In is back open for the season, and Third Thursday goes full Route 66 Fest in just nine days. With sunny skies and a high over 70° today, there's honestly no excuse not to get outside and see what's happening.

In today’s JOMO Jive:

• MOmentum’s Grand Debut

• 74+1 Joplin Teachers Deserve Recognition

• The Mother Road is Open Again

Let’s get to it.

— Matt Thompson

P.S. If you find something useful in today’s Jive, please share it with someone who doesn’t know Joplin has the longest stretch of Route 66 in Missouri.

🌲 May the Forest Be With You

Saturday, April 11 | 10 AM – 2 PM | Wildcat Park, Joplin

A long time ago, in a galaxy not far away… someone had the brilliant idea to combine Earth Day, Arbor Day, and Star Wars into a single free community event. That person deserves a medal.

Joplin Parks & Recreation, the Friends of Wildcat Glades Nature Group, Grip-Cuts LLC, and the Missouri Department of Conservation are teaming up to host May the Forest Be With You this Saturday at Wildcat Park. The fun runs from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM and includes a Star Wars-themed costume contest, nature exploration stations, an outdoor scavenger hunt, live music, food, family activities, and giveaways.

Whether your kids are more into Yoda or yellow-bellied sapsuckers, this one is worth the trip. Dust off the Darth Vader helmet, grab some sunscreen, and get yourself out to Wildcat Park. The Force, and the forest, are strong with this one.

🚲️ MOmentum Bike Park's Grand Launch Party

Saturday, May 2 | 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM | 601 Adventure Lane, Joplin

Joplin's newest outdoor destination is almost ready for its close-up. The city's MOmentum Bike Park will hold its Grand Launch Party on Saturday, May 2, from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM at 601 Adventure Lane — main entrance on Lone Elm Road, just south of Zora Avenue. This is not a lowkey ribbon-cutting. Expect friendly competitions, rider demonstrations, food trucks, vendor booths, a live DJ, and giveaways throughout the day.

Kids can score free helmet fittings, enter for free bike helmet giveaways, and explore a pit zone with a bike repair station. Experienced riders will showcase the park's features all day long. Vendors and nonprofits can still register for booth space at the Joplin Parks & Recreation office at 3301 W. 1st St. or by calling 417-625-4750.

🍎 74 Joplin Teachers Nominated for the 41st Annual Golden Apple Awards

Seventy-four. That's how many Joplin Schools teachers have been nominated for this year's 41st Annual Golden Apple Awards, powered by Allo Fiber. The Golden Apple Awards recognize educators who go above and beyond for their students — nominated by the very students, parents, and community members who see that dedication every single day.

If there's a teacher in your life who made the list, they've earned it. And if there's one who hasn't been nominated yet — there's still time to make it happen.

🎓 Joplin Schools Names 2025-26 Teacher of the Year

Speaking of teachers getting recognition, Joplin High School science teacher Tarryn Gilbert has been named the 2025-26 Joplin Schools District Teacher of the Year. Gilbert has nearly two decades of teaching experience and has been at JHS since 2017, teaching Physical Science, Chemistry, Engineering, and Physics. She also serves as co-chair of the Science Department and Physical Science subject lead.

Superintendent Dr. Kerry Sachetta surprised Gilbert with the announcement at JHS. "She embodies the true spirit of education, passing along her passion and curiosity to her students," said Dr. Sachetta.

Gilbert will compete for Regional Teacher of the Year later this summer and will receive a cash prize from the Joplin Schools Foundation at an upcoming board meeting.

🏛️ Friends of Joplin Memorial Hall to Host Public Meeting

Thurs. April 9 | 5:30 PM | Joplin Public Library, 1901 E 20th St., Community Room

A coalition working to save Joplin's 100-year-old Memorial Hall is hosting a public meeting this Thursday to share their rehabilitation plan with the community.

The group will present a $16.7 million rehabilitation plan (estimated by Crossland Construction) covering structural repairs, updated finishes, a new elevator, modern theatrical upgrades, and dedicated space for Post 13 American Legion. Funding would come from state and federal historic tax credits, new market tax credits, community fundraising, and a proposed 2% hotel-motel occupancy rate increase.

They're also looking for volunteers — ambassadors, fundraisers, and grant writers. Open to the public.

🎬️ Route 66 Drive-In Opens for Another Season

It's back. The Route 66 Drive-In has officially opened for another season, and one of the area’s most nostalgic nights out is ready to roll. One of the few remaining drive-in theaters in Missouri, the Route 66 Drive-In has been lighting up the sky for decades — big screens, car speakers, and the feeling that some things are just better left exactly as they are.

Check their current lineup and showtimes. Warm nights, a blanket in the back seat, and a double feature — this is peak spring in Joplin.

🏥 Freeman Health System Earns Top National Honor for Heart & Vascular Care

Freeman Health System has earned the highest STEMI (Transcatheter Excellence in MI) designation for its Heart & Vascular Institute — a national recognition placing Freeman among the top-performing cardiac care programs in the country.

For the Four States region, this means world-class heart care is right here at home. Freeman's Heart & Vascular Institute serves thousands of local patients each year, and this designation is a reflection of the quality they experience. The kind of news worth knowing — and worth sharing with people you care about.

Learn more at freemanhealth.com

Tuesday: 🌡️ 46 | 72 ⛅️ 

Wednesday: 🌡️ 53 | 74 💨 

Thursday: 🌡️ 55 | 77 ☀️ 

Recap:

⚾️ Baseball (22-12)
Tuesday 3/31 at HOME vs Newman University | W 22-9
Thursday 4/2 at HOME vs University of Central Oklahoma | W 9-5
Friday 4/3 at HOME vs University of Central Oklahoma | L 9-6
Saturday 4/4 at HOME vs University of Central Oklahoma | W 7-2

🥎 Softball (33-5)
Saturday 4/4 at HOME vs Northeastern State University | W 4-2, 7-2

👟 Men’s & Women’s Track & Field
Saturday 4/4 at Pittsburg State University | Recap

⛳️ Men’s Golf
Tuesday 3/31 at Tommy Riggs Collegiate Invitational in Pittsburg, KS | Recap

⛳️ Women’s Golf
Sunday 4/5 - Tuesday 4/7 at Spring Region Preview in Afton, OK | Recap

Upcoming:

⚾️ Baseball (22-12)
Tuesday 4/7 at HOME vs Pitt State University | 3:00 PM
Friday 4/10 at Emporia State University | 5:00 PM
Saturday 4/11 at Emporia State University | 2:00 PM
Sunday 4/12 at Emporia State University | 1:00 PM

🥎 Softball (33-5)
Friday 4/10 at Missouri Western State University | 2:00 PM, 4:00 PM
Saturday 4/11 at Northwest Missouri State University | 12:00 PM, 2:00 PM

👟 Men’s & Women’s Track & Field
Thursday 4/9 and Friday 4/10 at University of Central Missouri
Friday 4/10 and Saturday 4/11 at Harding University

Tuesday

 🎭️ "Jagged Little Pill: The Musical" Auditions: Yes, the Alanis Morissette album is now a musical, and it's coming to Joplin. If you've got the pipes (and the angst), auditions are open to ages 16+.

Wednesday

🐰 Preschool Nature Connections: Rabbits: A nature-themed program for little ones ages 3–7. Spring + bunnies + kids = can't miss.

🎭️ The Acting Academy Youth Program: Ongoing youth acting sessions at the Cornell Arts Complex — check for registration details.

Thursday

🎵 Hermitage Piano Trio: A full evening of live classical music at the Cornell Arts Complex. The Hermitage Piano Trio is internationally recognized — this is a legit night out at zero cost.

🎨 Impasto Oil Painting with Tricia Courtney: A hands-on afternoon workshop — thick, expressive oil painting with an experienced local instructor.

Friday

📚️ Dear Listener: A Night of Letters Aloud: An open mic night with a twist — bring an old letter from a relative, a creative letter you've written, or your favorite rejection letter and read it aloud. Hosted by the Joplin Public Library. Registration required.

We’d love to hear your feedback! Reply to this newsletter or take the poll to let us know how we’re doing!

Want to sponsor JOMO Jive? Send your inquiry to matt@jomojive.com

THANKS!

Thank you for reading JOMO Jive today. See you again Friday!

In partnership with

Want to sponsor your business in JOMO Jive? Send your inquiry to matt@jomojive.com

Good Morning, Joplin. Somewhere between Italy and Poland last week, thieves stole 413,793 KitKats (and the truck carrying them). Neither the candy or the truck have been located. Sounds like someone is planning one heck of a black market Easter egg hunt.

Announcement: There will be no JOMO Jive this Friday due to Good Friday.

In today’s JOMO Jive:

• Mutt Madness Winner

• A list of Easter Egg Hunts

• Joplin High School fashion show

• Thrive Joplin Summit

Let’s get to it.

— Matt Thompson

P.S. If you find something useful in today’s Jive, please share it with someone who calls it “Spring Cleaning” but just moves everything to the garage.

Learn more about the event and all of La Boussole’s April Med Spa Specials!

🏆 The Cutest Dog in Joplin Has Been Crowned

After weeks of voting, upsets, and some incredibly close matchups, we officially have a winner—Ranger has been crowned the Mutt Madness 2026 Champion, taking down Bella in the final round. Bella finishes as a strong runner-up after an impressive run through the bracket, while Moose claims 3rd place, rounding out a stacked field of some very good dogs (and very committed voters).

As for the prizes, thanks to PUP: A Super Neat Dog Boutique, Ranger will receive a prize package valued at approximately $75, while Bella will take home a $25 prize. Both winners will be contacted via a separate email with details on how to claim their prizes, which must be picked up in-store. Huge shoutout to everyone who entered, voted, and shared—this year’s Mutt Madness was bigger, tighter, and more fun than ever. 🐾

🥚 Easter Egg Hunts Around the Four-States

Easter is right around the corner, and communities across the Four-States are celebrating with a full lineup of Easter egg hunts for all ages. From massive community events to smaller neighborhood gatherings, there’s no shortage of opportunities for kids (and parents) to grab a basket and join the fun.

A list of local hunts has been compiled, with events happening throughout the region—though a few have already taken place. If you’re still looking to plan your Easter outing, it’s worth checking this list!

👗 JHS & FTC Students Take the Runway at Community Fashion Show

Thursday, April 2 | 6:00–8:00 PM | Eagle Alley at Joplin High School

Creativity will be front and center as students from Joplin High School and Franklin Technology Center host a Fashion Show and Shop event in Eagle Alley. From 6:00–7:00 PM, guests can browse student-made items, grab food, and explore vendor booths before the runway show kicks off at 7:00 PM, showcasing original designs created by students in Tiffanie Moore’s Fashion Design class.

The night will feature more than just fashion—expect floral displays from FTC Greenhouse students, drinks from JoJoe’s Coffee Shop, live music from the JHS Jam Club, and a variety of local vendors offering food, crafts, and more. Admission is free and open to the public, making it a great opportunity to support local students and see their hard work come to life on the runway.

🌱 Thrive Joplin Summit Aims to Tackle Big Community Challenges

Community leaders, volunteers, and anyone passionate about making a difference are invited to the Thrive Joplin Summit, hosted by One Joplin. This collaborative event will bring together voices from across Joplin, Webb City, Carterville, and Carl Junction to focus on long-term solutions for improving health, well-being, and quality of life in the region.

As part of the multi-year Thrive Joplin Project, the summit will introduce a “Thrive Blueprint”—a roadmap for addressing challenges like housing, food access, mental health, and social connection. Attendees will hear from regional organizations and participate in guided discussions aimed at turning ideas into action. Open to nonprofits, schools, businesses, faith groups, and engaged citizens alike, the summit is designed to build momentum and create lasting, community-driven impact.

🚧 City Utility Drop Box Drive-Through Temporarily Closed Through April 6

If you typically use the drive-through option for utility payments at Joplin City Hall, take note—it’s temporarily unavailable due to utility work in the alley behind the building. The walk-up drop box is still accessible, but you’ll need to park and drop off payments on foot until the work is completed.

The closure is expected to last through Monday, April 6 (weather permitting). In the meantime, residents can still pay their bills online at www.joplinmo.org/payments , by mail, or in person at City Hall during regular business hours.

Tuesday: 🌡️ 67 | 81 💨 

Wednesday: 🌡️ 63 | 79 🌧️ 70%

Thursday: 🌡️ 64 | 76 🌧️ 85%

Recap:

⚾️ Baseball (19-11)
Friday 3/27 at University of Arkansas Fort Smith | W 18-3
Saturday 3/28 at University of Arkansas Fort Smith | W 12-2
Sunday 3/29 at University of Arkansas Fort Smith | W 18-9

🥎 Softball (31-5)
Friday 3/27 at Washburn University | W 4-3, W 9-0
Saturday 3/28 at Emporia State University | W 7-6, W 4-1

👟 Men’s & Women’s Track & Field
Friday 3/27 at Emporia State University
Friday 3/27 and Saturday 3/28 at Washington University in St. Louis
Friday Results | Saturday Results

Upcoming:

⚾️ Baseball (19-11)
Tuesday 3/31 at HOME vs Newman University | 1:00 PM
Thursday 4/2 at HOME vs University of Central Oklahoma | 5:00 PM
Friday 4/3 at HOME vs University of Central Oklahoma | 5:00 PM
Saturday 4/4 at HOME vs University of Central Oklahoma | 1:00 PM

🥎 Softball (31-5)
Saturday 4/4 at HOME vs Northeastern State University | 1:00 PM, 3:00 PM

👟 Men’s & Women’s Track & Field
Saturday 4/4 at Pittsburg State University

⛳️ Men’s Golf
Tuesday 3/31 at Tommy Riggs Collegiate Invitational in Pittsburg, KS

⛳️ Women’s Golf
Sunday 4/5 - Tuesday 4/7 at Spring Region Preview in Afton, OK

🎺 Trio 66: MSSU Resident Brass Ensemble: Celebrate the 100th anniversary of Route 66 with an evening of brass music on the Crossland Rooftop Terrace at the Cornell Complex. Featuring works by American composers—including a newly commissioned piece by Nikki Krumwiede—this concert offers a unique, elevated musical experience presented with Connect2Culture.

🍷 April First Friday WineShare: Sip, share, and connect at this laid-back networking event hosted by ALLO Fiber in Downtown Joplin. Bring a bottle of wine or craft beer to share and enjoy an evening of conversation with fellow community members in a relaxed, 21+ setting.

🎬 Comedy Spring – Hunt for the Wilderpeople: Enjoy a hilarious and heartfelt adventure as a rebellious city kid and his gruff uncle go on the run through the New Zealand wilderness. This free screening at Cornell Auditorium in Plaster Hall brings big laughs and wild antics to your Friday evening.

🖤 Inky Swear Grand Opening Event: Celebrate the official opening of Inky Swear with giveaways, dirty sodas, and permanent jewelry in a fun, welcoming atmosphere. With 9 years of beauty industry experience, this new Joplin studio specializes in fine line tattoos and permanent makeup—creating a safe, stylish space for the girls.

We’d love to hear your feedback! Reply to this newsletter or take the poll to let us know how we’re doing!

In partnership with

Want to sponsor your business in JOMO Jive? Send your inquiry to matt@jomojive.com

Good Morning, Joplin. If you haven’t had your lawnmower serviced for this season, you’re already behind. Also, who would have thought we’d be kicking on our A/C in March, right?

In today’s JOMO Jive:

• Mutt Madness Championship

• Civil War Reenactment

• Joplin Jailbirds

Let’s get to it.

— Matt Thompson

P.S. If you find something useful in today’s Jive, please share it with someone who has already mowed their lawn.

🚁 Helicopter Easter Egg Drop at MSSU

Saturday, March 28 | 11:00 AM–2:00 PM | MSSU Soccer Fields
📍 3950 Newman Rd, Joplin | 🎟️ FREE | No registration required

After an overwhelming response last year, this family-favorite event is coming back even bigger and better. Forest Park Church heard the community loud and clear—and made major upgrades for 2026.

🥚 110,000+ eggs (up from 40,000 last year!)
🎈 45 inflatables (more than double last year!)
🍔 More food stations to keep lines moving

🐣 PreK Hunt at 11:30 AM
🚁 Helicopter Drops (ages 5–12) at 12:30 & 1:30 PM — now spaced out for a better experience

Hosted by Forest Park Church, this is one you don’t want to miss!

🏆 Mutt Madness Championship!

It all comes down to this—Ranger vs. Bella for the title of Cutest Dog in Joplin. After weeks of matchups, close calls, and some serious campaigning, we’ve reached the championship round. If your heart is set on one of these pups, now’s the time to make it count—every vote matters.

And don’t forget what’s on the line. Thanks to PUP: A Super Neat Dog Boutique, the champion will win a prize package valued at around $75, while the runner-up will take home $25 in goodies. So cast your vote and help crown this year’s top dog. 🐾

⚔️ Civil War Reenactors Wanted for Battle of Carthage Anniversary

June 6–7 | Civil War Arena, Carthage

History will come to life once again this summer as organizers prepare for the 165th Commemorative Anniversary of the Battle of Carthage, and they’re calling on reenactors to join the ranks. The annual event, hosted by Battle of Carthage Inc., takes place at the Civil War Arena and invites participants to step into the past for a full weekend of immersive living history.

In addition to the reenactment battles, the weekend will feature camp life demonstrations, a Civil War ball, a ladies tea, and even a period-style church service. Admission for spectators is $5, while those interested in participating as reenactors must register by June 5 at the event site, with additional requirements for specialized units like artillery and cavalry.

⚾ Host Families Needed for Joplin Jailbirds Season

As the Joplin Jailbirds gear up for their inaugural season in the MINK League, they’re looking for local families to step up in a big way. Host families play a key role in the summer collegiate baseball experience, providing a place for players—who come from all over the country—to stay while building meaningful, lasting connections within the community.

If you’re interested in opening your home (and being part of the team behind the team), an informational meeting is a great first step to learn what’s involved. Families can choose to host one or more players, and even coaches, while helping create a memorable experience both on and off the field. With opening day set for May 29, now’s the time to get involved and be part of Joplin’s newest baseball tradition.

Click here to view the host family informational meeting.

Friday: 🌡️ 43 | 73 ⛈️ 100%

Saturday: 🌡️ 35 | 63 ☀️

Sunday: 🌡️ 47 | 77 💨 

Recap:

⚾️ Baseball (16-11)
Wednesday 3/25 at Pittsburg State University | L 12-6

⛳️ Women’s Golf
Monday 3/23 and Tuesday 3/24 at Hardscrabble Invitational in Fort Smith | Results

Upcoming:

⚾️ Baseball (16-11)
Friday 3/27 at University of Arkansas Fort Smith | 1:00 PM
Saturday 3/28 at University of Arkansas Fort Smith | 1:00 PM
Sunday 3/29 at University of Arkansas Fort Smith | 1:00 PM

🥎 Softball (27-5)
Friday 3/27 at Washburn University | 3:00 PM, 6:00 PM
Saturday 3/28 at Emporia State University | 1:00 PM, 3:00 PM

👟 Men’s & Women’s Track & Field
Friday 3/27 at Emporia State University
Friday 3/27 and Saturday 3/28 at Washington University in St. Louis

Friday & Saturday

💐 Build a Bouquet at Spiva in Bloom: Create your own mini bouquet by selecting fresh stems and arranging a custom floral piece to take home during this hands-on Spiva in Bloom experience. Tickets are available on-site, making it an easy and creative stop for anyone wanting a little springtime beauty. Friday from 1:00 - 5:00 PM. Saturday from 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM.

Friday

🌸 The Art of Scent: Personalized Fragrance Workshop: Explore the world of floral perfumery at Spiva as you learn the history and craft behind fragrance before creating your own custom scent to take home. Led by Angela Harris of Alchemist Haven, this hands-on experience includes refreshments and a guided, sensory-driven journey—preregistration required.

🎩 A Different Way of Thinking: An Evening With Cody Clark: Experience a powerful night of magic, comedy, and storytelling as magician and autism self-advocate Cody Clark shares his journey in a unique, all-ages performance. Hosted by Community Support Services of Missouri, the evening also includes a Q&A and celebrates inclusion during Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month.

Saturday

🎤 Elvis: In Person with Matt Stone: Experience a world-class tribute to Elvis Presley as Matt Stone delivers a high-energy, authentic concert recreating the King’s prime years at the historic Coleman Theatre. Backed by a full band, this theatrical performance brings Elvis’s iconic sound and stage presence to life for one unforgettable night.

🤝 Carthage Chamber Business Expo: Explore a wide range of local businesses all in one place at the YMCA Youth Activity Center, where community members can discover services, meet business owners, and take advantage of special offers and giveaways. It’s a great opportunity to connect with and support the businesses that keep Carthage thriving.

☕ March Cars & Coffee: Start your morning with free coffee and donuts at Flagship Auto Group while checking out a mix of show cars and daily drivers. It’s a laid-back, family-friendly gathering for car lovers to connect, chat, and enjoy the scene together.

🎭 Joplin Improv Show: Enjoy a night of fast-paced, unscripted comedy at Joplin Avenue Coffee Company as the Joplin Improv crew brings audience-driven scenes, quick games, and plenty of surprises to the stage. With PG-13 humor and a lively, interactive vibe, it’s the perfect way to grab a drink and laugh your way into spring.

🛍️ Downtown Webb City Spring Shop Hop: Spend the day shopping local with exclusive deals, pop-up vendors, and specials at participating downtown merchants throughout Webb City. Every purchase earns entries into a grand prize giveaway, and VIP shoppers can score swag bags, coupons, and bonus entries for an even bigger chance to win.

🌷 Easter Celebration at Precious Moments Chapel: Enjoy a family-friendly day of Easter fun with chapel tours, live music, photos with Timmy the Angel, and plenty of raffles, giveaways, and free gifts for kids. With free admission all day, it’s a meaningful and joyful way to celebrate the season together.

🏁 Saturday Fun Drags at Mo-Kan Dragway: Take your car down the 1/4-mile strip or watch the action as racers hit the track for a laid-back day of drag racing. Gates open at noon with racing from 1:00–5:00 PM, and admission is $10 (kids 12 and under free), making it an easy, high-octane outing for all ages.

Saturday & Sunday

🌲 Your Outdoors Expo: Explore everything outdoors under one roof with a weekend full of vendors, gear, outfitters, and ideas for your next adventure. With affordable entry, family-friendly pricing, and plenty to see and learn, it’s a great opportunity to connect with experts and fellow outdoor enthusiasts. Saturday from 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM. Sunday from 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM.

LIVE MUSIC LOWDOWN

Friday

Eric & Erica French
Butterfly Insights | 6:00 PM

Aidan Canfield
Kansas Crossing Casino | 6:00 PM

Holly Crays
Beard Engine Brewing Co | 6:30 PM

Kylie Ast
Vino Noir | 7:00 PM

Brad Hemphill
Carthage VFW Post 2590 | 7:00 PM

Pete and Dave
Osage Spring | 8:00 PM

Full Throttle
Bricks & Brews | 8:00 PM

Stone Country
Kansas Crossing Casino | 8:00 PM

Ozark Storm
The Stables Casino | 8:00 PM

Downbeat Duo
Cherokee Casino Grove | 8:00 PM

Saturday

Grace & Gravy
Joplin Empire Market | 12:00 PM

Justin Treiber
HoneyPop’s Bar & Grill | 5:00 PM

Quinton Scott
Christine’s Vineyard | 6:00 PM

Dallas Stump
Keltoi Winery | 6:00 PM

Larry Newson
Turtleheads Raw Bar | 7:00 PM

Kentucky Headhunters ($)
Kansas Crossing Casino | 8:00 PM

The Mixtapes
Chaos Brewing | 8:00 PM

The Bakbeatz
Buffalo Run Casino | 8:30 PM

Sunday

Gary Hutchison
HoneyPop’s Bar & Grill | 5:00 PM

We’d love to hear your feedback! Reply to this newsletter or take the poll to let us know how we’re doing!

In partnership with

Want to sponsor your business in JOMO Jive? Send your inquiry to matt@jomojive.com

Good Morning, Joplin. In honor of Chuck Norris’ life, we’d like to encourage you to adopt the message from his final Instagram post (a video of him sparring just a week before his death at 86): Don’t age. Level Up.

In today’s JOMO Jive:

• Helicopter Easter Egg Drop

• Mutt Madness Final Four

• Spiva in Bloom

• You Belong in Joplin

Let’s get to it.

— Matt Thompson

P.S. If you find something useful in today’s Jive, please share it with someone who knows a good Chuck Norris joke.

🚁 Helicopter Easter Egg Drop at MSSU

Saturday, March 28 | 11:00 AM–2:00 PM | MSSU Soccer Fields
📍 3950 Newman Rd, Joplin | 🎟️ FREE | No registration required

After an overwhelming response last year, this family-favorite event is coming back even bigger and better. Forest Park Church heard the community loud and clear—and made major upgrades for 2026.

🥚 110,000+ eggs (up from 40,000 last year!)
🎈 45 inflatables (more than double last year!)
🍔 More food stations to keep lines moving

🐣 PreK Hunt at 11:30 AM
🚁 Helicopter Drops (ages 5–12) at 12:30 & 1:30 PM — now spaced out for a better experience

Hosted by Forest Park Church, this is one you don’t want to miss!

🐾 Mutt Madness Final Four

We’re officially down to the Final Four in Mutt Madness, and the competition has never been tighter. Every vote matters now—one click could be the difference between a trip to the championship or going home just short of glory. If your pup is still in it (or you’ve picked your favorite), now’s the time to rally the votes and make a push for the title of Cutest Dog in Joplin.

And don’t forget—there’s more than bragging rights on the line. Thanks to PUP: A Super Neat Dog Boutique, the champion will take home a prize package valued at $75, while the runner-up earns a $25 prize. Winners can claim their goodies in-store through May 1… so yes, your dog could literally win something awesome.

🌸 Spiva in Bloom Brings Art & Flowers Together

March 26–28 | Spiva Center for the Arts

Spring is about to bloom inside the galleries at Spiva with Spiva in Bloom, a three-day celebration where floral designers transform artwork into stunning, living displays. This annual event blends visual art with floral creativity, giving visitors a chance to explore the galleries in a completely unique way—alongside interactive experiences, workshops, and special events throughout the weekend.

The weekend kicks off with an Opening Reception & Awards on Thursday evening, followed by a mix of ticketed and free experiences including a hands-on bouquet station, a makers market, floral workshops, and even a fragrance-making class. Whether you’re browsing, creating, or just soaking it all in, Spiva in Bloom is one of the most visually unique events of the season—and a perfect excuse to spend a few hours surrounded by art, flowers, and creativity.

🥚 Flashlight Easter Egg Hunt Registration Open

Grab the kids and get ready for a unique twist on an Easter tradition—Joplin Parks and Recreation is hosting a Flashlight Easter Egg Hunt where the action kicks off after sunset. Check-in begins at 7:30 PM, with age-group hunts starting around 8:30 PM, giving kids the chance to race across the fields under the lights for hidden eggs.

Registration is $5 per child and must be completed by Friday, March 27 at 5:00 PM—no walk-ups allowed. Spots are limited to 70 kids per age group, so early sign-up is key. Parents can join the youngest group (ages 3–4), while older kids take on the hunt solo. It’s fast-paced, a little chaotic (in the best way), and always a hit.

🤝 You Belong in Joplin Invites Community to Monthly Meetup

Wednesday, March 25 | 5:30–6:30 PM | Blackthorn Pizza & Pub

Looking to get more connected in the community? You Belong in Joplin is hosting its monthly meeting at Blackthorn Pizza, inviting residents to come together for conversation, collaboration, and community-building. Whether you’ve been involved before or are just curious, this is an open, welcoming space to meet others who care about making Joplin a more inclusive place for everyone.

Originally formed through the Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce as an Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion workgroup, You Belong in Joplin continues that mission today by supporting and amplifying voices from across the community—including individuals of diverse backgrounds, LGBTQ residents, and people with disabilities. In addition to monthly gatherings, the group hosts Courageous Conversations and sponsors the annual “You Belong” Third Thursday event, all centered around fostering connection, understanding, and a stronger sense of belonging in Joplin.

🗳️ JACC Hosts Members-Only City Council Candidate Forum

Friday, March 27 | 2:00–3:30 PM | Joplin Avenue Coffee Co.

Local business leaders will have a chance to hear directly from candidates running for Joplin City Council at an exclusive forum hosted by the Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce. Held at Joplin Avenue Coffee Company, the event offers a structured setting where candidates will share their priorities, address key issues impacting the community, and outline their vision for Joplin’s future.

This forum is open to Chamber members only, and advanced registration is required. It’s a valuable opportunity for those in the business community to get informed ahead of the upcoming election and hear directly from the individuals seeking to shape the city’s direction.

🏫 Chamber to Announce Support for Eagle Bond 2026

Tuesday, March 24 | 10:30–11:30 AM | Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce

The Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce will host a media event today to formally announce its endorsement of the Eagle Bond 2026 proposal. The event will take place at the Chamber offices and will bring together key voices involved in shaping the bond initiative.

Attendees will hear from Joplin Schools administrators, members of the Eagles Forward advisory board, and the Long Range Facility Committee, who will be available to answer questions and discuss how the proposed bond would impact local schools and the broader community. The event is designed to provide clarity around the proposal ahead of the upcoming April vote.

Tuesday: 🌡️ 47 | 69 ☁️ 

Wednesday: 🌡️ 53 | 85 ☀️

Thursday: 🌡️ 67 | 89 💨 

Recap:

⚾️ Baseball (16-10)
Friday 3/20 at HOME vs Fort Hays State University | W 11-10
Saturday 3/21 at HOME vs Fort Hays State University | W 10-8
Sunday 3/22 at HOME vs Fort Hays State University | W 12-4

 🥎 Softball (27-5)
Friday 3/20 at Fort Hays State University | L 4-1
Friday 3/20 at Fort Hays State University | W 9-4
Saturday 3/21 at University of Nebraska at Kearny | L 7-6
Saturday 3/21 at University of Nebraska at Kearny | W 9-1

⛳️ Women’s Golf
Monday 3/23 and Tuesday 3/24 at Hardscrabble Invitational in Fort Smith | Results

👟 Men’s & Women’s Track & Field
Friday 3/20 and Saturday 3/21 at Missouri S&T in Rolla, MO | Results

Upcoming:

⚾️ Baseball (16-10)
Wednesday 3/25 at Pittsburg State University | 3:00 PM
Friday 3/27 at University of Arkansas Fort Smith | 1:00 PM
Saturday 3/28 at University of Arkansas Fort Smith | 1:00 PM
Sunday 3/29 at University of Arkansas Fort Smith | 1:00 PM

🥎 Softball (27-5)
Friday 3/27 at Washburn University | 3:00 PM, 6:00 PM
Saturday 3/28 at Emporia State University | 1:00 PM, 3:00 PM

⛳️ Women’s Golf
Monday 3/23 and Tuesday 3/24 at Hardscrabble Invitational in Fort Smith | Results

👟 Men’s & Women’s Track & Field
Friday 3/27 at Emporia State University
Friday 3/27 and Saturday 3/28 at Washington University in St. Louis

Tuesday

🎬 Old Hollywood Movie Night: Step back in time at the library with a pre-Code double feature featuring Baby Face (1933) and The Public Enemy (1931), showcasing the bold storytelling of early Hollywood. This free, adults-only event offers a relaxed evening of classic cinema with no registration required.

Wednesday

💉 Brash Beauty & Bubbles at The 122 Lounge: Treat yourself to a night of self-care, cocktails, and beauty with Botox and aesthetic treatments by Brash Beauty Spa. Enjoy champagne, craft drinks, raffles, and a social, upscale vibe—appointments are limited, so reserve your spot early with a $50 deposit applied toward services.

🥁 Drum Shed with Mya Cymbaluk: Try your hand at drumming in this high-energy, beginner-friendly session at Palen Music Center led by Mya Cymbaluk. Participants will build grooves, join live jam sessions, test out gear, and even take home free drumsticks—no experience needed, just show up ready to make some noise.

Friday

🌸 The Art of Scent: Personalized Fragrance Workshop: Explore the world of floral perfumery at Spiva as you learn the history and craft behind fragrance before creating your own custom scent to take home. Led by Angela Harris of Alchemist Haven, this hands-on experience includes refreshments and a guided, sensory-driven journey—preregistration required.

🎩 A Different Way of Thinking: An Evening With Cody Clark: Experience a powerful night of magic, comedy, and storytelling as magician and autism self-advocate Cody Clark shares his journey in a unique, all-ages performance. Hosted by Community Support Services of Missouri, the evening also includes a Q&A and celebrates inclusion during Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month.

🧠 Willcoxon Innovation in Health Sciences Summit: Hosted by Missouri Southern State University, this forward-looking summit brings together healthcare professionals, students, and community members to explore emerging technologies, industry trends, and the future of care. Featuring expert speakers, breakout sessions, and a keynote on innovation in healthcare, the event offers valuable insight into the evolving world of health sciences.

We’d love to hear your feedback! Reply to this newsletter or take the poll to let us know how we’re doing!

In partnership with

Want to sponsor your business in JOMO Jive? Send your inquiry to matt@jomojive.com

Good Morning, Joplin. I just learned that Steve Jobs’ daughter’s name is Eve Jobs. That has to be intentional, right? Still not as crazy as George Foreman naming all five of his sons George Foreman.

In today’s JOMO Jive:

• Mutt Madness Elite 8

• Guns & Hoses

• Kids Bowl Free

• Eagle Bond 2026

Let’s get to it.

— Matt Thompson

P.S. If you find something useful in today’s Jive, please share it with someone who regularly uses a George Foreman grill.

🍷 Cheers to Four Years at Christine’s Vineyard

Saturday, March 21 | 12:00–10:00 PM | Christine’s Vineyard, Webb City

Raise a glass to four years of wine, community, and good times at Christine’s Vineyard’s Anniversary Celebration! Spend the afternoon strolling through local vendors (12–5 PM), then stick around for a food truck (3–8 PM), live music, and plenty of your favorite pours.

🍷 Wine
🛍️ Local shopping
🌮 Great food
🎶 Laid-back vineyard vibes

Whether you’re a longtime regular or first-time visitor, this is the perfect day to sip, relax, and celebrate with friends. Cheers to four years! 🥂

🐶 Mutt Madness Hits the Elite 8!

We’re down to the Elite 8, and things are getting intense. Last round featured not one—but two matchups decided by a single vote. That means every click truly counts as we get closer to crowning Joplin’s Cutest Dog.

Click below to cast your votes and keep your favorite pup in the running. The competition is tighter than ever, and one vote could be the difference between moving on… or going home.

To sweeten the stakes, JOMO Jive has teamed up with PUP: A Super Neat Dog Boutique to reward this year’s top pups. The first-place winner will receive a prize package valued at approximately $75, while the runner-up will take home a $25 prize—both packed with goodies your dog will love. Winners will be able to claim their prizes in-store, with pickup available through May 1, so there’s even more reason to rally the votes and make a run at the title. 🐾

🏀 Guns & Hoses Returns for a Night of Hoops & Giving

Saturday, April 11 | 6:00 PM | Joplin High School Gym

Joplin’s bravest and finest will hit the court for a great cause at the 9th Annual Guns & Hoses basketball game, featuring Joplin Fire vs. Joplin Police at Joplin High School. Doors open at 5:00 PM, with tip-off at 6:00 PM. Admission is just $5 for adults, and kids get in free, making it an easy, family-friendly night out.

Beyond the game, attendees can take part in a silent auction, 50/50 raffle, and a $500 half-court shot contest, all benefiting Bright Futures Joplin. The organization supports local students facing poverty by providing essentials like food, clothing, school supplies, and more—helping remove barriers so kids can succeed in school and beyond.

Click the link below for sponsorship registration!

🎳 Kids Bowl Free Returns for Summer Fun

Looking for a fun (and free) way to keep the kids active this summer? The Kids Bowl Free program is back, giving kids the chance to bowl two free games every day all summer long at participating locations. With centers nearby and others across the region, it’s an easy way to beat the heat and create some family memories.

Locations in our region:
Joplin: Carl Richard's 4th Street Bowl
Carthage: G3 Entertainment & Grace Lanes
Neosho: Edgewood Bowl
Pineville: Pineville Bowl

Registration is quick and free—just sign up online, choose your local bowling center, and start planning your summer outings. The program is designed to get kids off screens, stay active, and enjoy time with family and friends, all without adding extra cost.

🏫 Joplin Schools’ “Eagle Bond 2026” on April Ballot

Joplin voters will soon decide on the proposed “Eagle Bond 2026,” a $40 million bond aimed at upgrading school facilities across the district. The plan focuses on improving safety, accessibility, and learning environments at seven of Joplin’s oldest elementary schools, while also adding a new indoor education and activity facility at Joplin High School. District leaders say the proposal is part of a long-range facility plan shaped by community input and ongoing needs.

If approved, the bond would be funded alongside existing reserves and is structured to avoid increasing the current tax rate. Supporters say the investment would modernize aging buildings, expand student activity space, and ensure schools are equipped to support future generations—while maintaining one of the lowest school tax rates in Southwest Missouri.

🧾 Free Document Shredding Event Set for April 4

Saturday, April 4 | 9:00–11:00 AM | Joplin Recycling Center

Got a stack of old papers you’ve been meaning to get rid of? The City of Joplin is making it easy—and secure—with a free document shredding event on April 4 at the Joplin Recycling Center. A mobile shred truck from Big Bear Shredding will be on-site to safely destroy sensitive documents, helping protect against identity theft while clearing out the clutter.

Residents can bring up to several boxes or bags of paper per vehicle (with limits in place), and all shredding is done on-site at no cost. Just be sure to remove binders, clips, CDs, and any non-paper materials before arriving. If you can’t make it, the Recycling Center also offers free year-round document disposal services for smaller loads.

Friday: 🌡️ 55 | 87 ☀️

Saturday: 🌡️ 59 | 88 ☀️

Sunday: 🌡️ 57 | 87 💨 

Recap:

⚾️ Baseball (13-10)
Tuesday 3/17 at HOME vs Newman University | W 12-4

Upcoming:

⚾️ Baseball (13-10)
Friday 3/20 at HOME vs Fort Hays State University | 1:00 PM
Saturday 3/21 at HOME vs Fort Hays State University | 1:00 PM
Sunday 3/22 at HOME vs Fort Hays State University | 1:00 PM

 🥎 Softball (25-3)
Friday 3/20 at Fort Hays State University | 2:00 PM
Friday 3/20 at Fort Hays State University | 4:00 PM
Saturday 3/21 at University of Nebraska at Kearny | 1:00 PM
Saturday 3/21 at University of Nebraska at Kearny | 3:00 PM

👟 Men’s & Women’s Track & Field
Friday 3/20 and Saturday 3/21 at Missouri S&T in Rolla, MO

Multi-Day Events

🛍 Fostering Hope’s Quarter Sale: Shop a wide selection of items for just 25¢ each at this spring sale supporting Fostering Hope SWMO. Held at First Baptist Church of Oronogo, this cash-only event is a budget-friendly way to find great deals while supporting a meaningful cause.

Saturday

🧠 Trivia Night at Joplin Greenhouse: Enjoy a cozy night of trivia inside the greenhouse with fresh spring vibes, seasonal drinks, and plenty of laughs with friends. Doors open at 5:00 PM with trivia starting at 5:30 PM—perfect for teams of all skill levels looking for fun and friendly competition.

😂 Chaos Comedy Vol. 31: Laugh your way through a night of stand-up at Chaos Brewing Co. featuring comedians Parker Willis and Nic Ferrell. After a short hiatus, this fan-favorite comedy series returns with high-energy sets, craft beer, and a lively downtown atmosphere.

🛍️ Handmade & Vintage Market (Indoor Swap Meet): Browse a wide variety of vintage finds, handmade goods, and unique treasures from local vendors at Carthage Memorial Hall. With free admission and a relaxed indoor setting, it’s a great way to shop local and connect with the community during the winter market season.

🎯 March Cornhole Tournament at Kicks Bar & Grill: Grab a partner and compete in this double-elimination cornhole tournament with sign-ups at noon and bags flying at 2 PM. Enjoy drink specials all day and a laid-back, competitive atmosphere—weather permitting.

Sunday

🎨 Zinc Paint & Sip “Hello Spring”: Welcome the season with a guided paint night at Zinc Coffee, where you’ll create a spring-inspired piece on a pre-sketched canvas. Your ticket includes all supplies and one beverage, making it a fun, easygoing creative outing with limited seating.

LIVE MUSIC LOWDOWN

Friday

Blues Doctors
Mi Torito, Galena | 5:30 PM

Will Wadkins
Christine’s Vineyard | 6:00 PM

Morgan Rohr
Beard Engine Brewing Co | 6:00 PM

Zane Grimes
Red Ball Bar & Grill | 7:00 PM

Low Compatibility
The Balkan | 7:00 PM

KillerKole with Maddie J Mae and Josh Mullen
Blackthorn Pizza & Pub | 9:00 PM

Saturday

Jason Garrison
Christine’s Vineyard | 6:00 PM

Nick Sarwinski
Keltoi Winery | 6:00 PM

Torn
Turtleheads Raw Bar | 7:00 PM

Chris Hewitt
The Living Room | 8:00 PM

Decrepit Kingdom, Death By Zombie and Nathan LaBee
Blackthorn Pizza & Pub | 9:00 PM

We’d love to hear your feedback! Reply to this newsletter or take the poll to let us know how we’re doing!

In partnership with

Want to sponsor your business in JOMO Jive? Send your inquiry to matt@jomojive.com

Good Morning, Joplin. Sometimes I wonder what it’d be like to live in a place where you wake up one day, it’s spring, and there’s no fear of going right back to winter the very next day. Welcome to Spring Break in the Midwest!

Today is St. Patrick’s Day! Want to know the real green today? The $7.7 billion Americans celebrating the holiday, mostly on food and drink (read: mostly drink).

In today’s JOMO Jive:

• Mutt Madness Sweet 16

• A Dog’s Dream fundraisers

• Willcoxon Health Sciences Summit

Let’s get to it.

— Matt Thompson

P.S. If you find something useful in today’s Jive, please share it with someone who refuses to wear green on St. Patrick’s Day.

💚 Third Thursday Returns: Go Green Downtown

Thursday, March 19 | 5:30–8:30 PM | Downtown Joplin

Downtown Joplin Alliance kicks off the 19th season of Third Thursday with a festive “Go Green Downtown” celebration. Expect 100+ vendors, 20+ food trucks, live music from Paul Blakely, Cai Gray, 7-Tang, Baylee’s Music Academy, and Andrew Pommert, plus a vintage car cruise and DJ on the 100 block.

🌿 Visit JoplinRecycles.com booths for giveaways and to learn about the city’s recycling program.
🌳 Allo Fiber will host specials, free succulents, and family fun at their storefront.

Also enjoy a wine garden, artisan market, bounce house, spring open house at Countryside Flowers, and more—so wear green and hit Main Street!

🐶 Mutt Madness Sweet 16!

Round One of Mutt Madness delivered some serious drama. A few pups cruised to easy victories, while one nail-biter was decided by just two votes. The race to crown the cutest dog in Joplin is officially heating up.

Click below to see if your dog made it to the Sweet 16, then cast your vote for the pup you think deserves to advance. The competition is getting tougher, the dogs are getting cuter, and only one can ultimately claim the title of Cutest Dog in Joplin. 🐾

🐕️ Support Local Pups with A Dog’s Dream Silent Auction & Raffle

If Mutt Madness has you feeling extra appreciative of the dogs in our community, here’s another way to show some love. A Dog’s Dream Rescue has launched a 10-day online silent auction and 50/50 raffle fundraiser, with all proceeds supporting their adoption program and the dogs waiting for their forever homes.

The silent auction fundraiser features a wide variety of items to bid on, including Half Face Blades gear, Grunt Style merchandise, date night packages, doggie daycare, local gift cards, and more. Participants can also enter the 50/50 raffle, where one lucky winner receives half of the total pot while the other half directly funds veterinary care, food, supplies, and adoption preparation for rescue dogs. It’s a fun way to support a great cause—and maybe even win something along the way.

🧬 Willcoxon Health Sciences Summit Explores Future of Healthcare

Friday, March 27 | Missouri Southern State University

Healthcare professionals, students, and community members are invited to explore the future of medicine at the Willcoxon Innovation in Health Sciences Summit on March 27 at Missouri Southern State University. The one-day summit will bring together nationally and regionally recognized experts to discuss emerging healthcare technologies, rural healthcare challenges, and innovations shaping the next generation of medical care. The event will feature keynote speaker Mary Joy Garcia-Dia, program director of Nursing Informatics at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, along with presentations from researchers and healthcare leaders across the region.

Attendees can expect a full day of programming including expert presentations, breakout sessions, and a panel discussion on rural healthcare solutions. The summit will also highlight Missouri Southern’s growing role in healthcare education, including the upcoming Blunt Health Science Innovation Center, a state-of-the-art training facility scheduled to open in 2026 that will feature a simulated hospital, cadaver lab, and advanced clinical training spaces for future healthcare professionals. Organizers say the event is designed to inspire collaboration and give attendees insight into the technologies and ideas shaping tomorrow’s healthcare system.

🐢 Hare & Tortoise Brings Aesop’s Classic to the Stage

Sunday, March 29 | 2:00 PM | Beshore Performance Hall

Families are invited to enjoy a playful live theatre experience as Hare & Tortoise, presented by Tutti Frutti Productions, comes to the Cornell Complex as part of the Ignite Series. This lively musical adaptation of Aesop’s famous fable follows the speedy Hare and the steady Tortoise as they race through the seasons, learning lessons about patience, friendship, and perseverance along the way.

Featuring three actor-musicians, original songs, and energetic physical storytelling, the show is designed especially for children ages three and up. Tickets are $5 for kids and $20 for adults, making it a fun and accessible introduction to live theatre for the whole family.

Click here for more information or to buy tickets.

💡 Pitch Palooza

April 16–17 | Cornell Auditorium | Missouri Southern

Entrepreneurs and innovators from across the region will take the stage this spring for Pitch Palooza 2026, a two-day business pitch competition hosted at Missouri Southern State University inside the Robert W. Plaster School of Business. The event features multiple tracks designed to spotlight emerging ideas and growing ventures, with high school and collegiate pitches scheduled for April 16, followed by start-up and scalability competitions on April 17.

Participants will pitch their business ideas live to a panel of judges for the chance to win cash prizes, awards, mentorship opportunities, and business resources. Applications are open now for student entrepreneurs, early-stage startups, and established businesses ready to scale, with the deadline to apply set for April 6. The competition aims to showcase innovation while connecting local entrepreneurs with mentors, investors, and the broader business community.

Tuesday: 🌡️ 20 | 51 ☁️ 

Wednesday: 🌡️ 44 | 70 ⛅️ 

Thursday: 🌡️ 52 | 77 ☀️ 

🦁 Missouri Southern Athletes Earn All-American Honors at NCAA Championships

Missouri Southern track and field athletes turned in a strong performance at the NCAA Division II Indoor Track & Field Championships, highlighted by multiple All-American finishes. Dailynn VanDeren led the Lions with a third-place finish in the women’s weight throw with a personal-best mark of 20.63 meters. Teammates Briar Gillum and Kirsten Womack also earned All-American honors in the event.

Missouri Southern added more national recognition in the shot put, where Cedric Pearson finished second to earn First Team All-American honors. VanDeren also secured another First Team honor with a third-place finish in the women’s shot put, helping cap a strong championship showing for the Lions.

Recap:

⚾️ Baseball (12-10)
Friday 3/13 at HOME vs Washburn University | W 9-3
Saturday 3/14 at HOME vs Washburn University | W 17-15
Sunday 3/15 at HOME vs Washburn University | W 7-5

🥎 Softball (25-3) at Teri Mathis-Zenner MIAA/NSIC Crossover Tournament
Friday 3/13 vs St. Cloud State University | W 3-1
Friday 3/13 vs St. Cloud State University | W 4-1
Saturday 3/14 vs University of Sioux Falls (SD) | W 7-2
Saturday 3/14 vs University of Sioux Falls (SD) | W 1-0

👟 Men’s & Women’s Track & Field
Friday 3/13 and Saturday 3/14 at NCAA Indoor Championships
Friday Recap | Saturday Recap

Upcoming:

⚾️ Baseball (12-10)
Tuesday 3/17 at HOME vs Newman University | 3:00 PM
Friday 3/20 at HOME vs Fort Hays State University | 1:00 PM
Saturday 3/21 at HOME vs Fort Hays State University | 1:00 PM
Sunday 3/22 at HOME vs Fort Hays State University | 1:00 PM

 🥎 Softball (25-3)
Friday 3/20 at Fort Hays State University | 2:00 PM
Friday 3/20 at Fort Hays State University | 4:00 PM
Saturday 3/21 at University of Nebraska at Kearny | 1:00 PM
Saturday 3/21 at University of Nebraska at Kearny | 3:00 PM

Tuesday

🧠 Joplin Trivia Night at Tropicana Bar & Grill: Gather your team and test your knowledge at this weekly pub trivia night featuring a mix of categories from pop culture to history. It’s free to play, with gift card prizes for the top teams and plenty of friendly competition.

Wednesday

🎧 Music Bingo at B&B Theatres: Grab your friends and test your music knowledge in this fun, St. Patrick’s–themed bingo night with songs across genres and eras. It’s free to play, open to all ages, and features prizes for winners plus food and drinks available while you play.

Thursday

🎻 Dover Quartet – From Carnegie to Joplin: Pro Musica presents the internationally acclaimed Dover Quartet for a special free concert at First Presbyterian Church. Hailed as one of the great string quartets of the past century, the ensemble brings world-class classical music—from stages like Carnegie Hall—to an inspiring evening in the Four States community.

🛍 End of an Era: A Final Night Out at Revel: Revel Boutique in Carthage is hosting one last girls’ night out before the store closes, inviting the community to sip, shop, and celebrate together. Guests can enjoy 30% off storewide and browse fixtures and items for sale while saying goodbye to the beloved local shop.

We’d love to hear your feedback! Reply to this newsletter or take the poll to let us know how we’re doing!

In partnership with

Want to sponsor your business in JOMO Jive? Send your inquiry to matt@jomojive.com

Good Morning, Joplin. Fun fact: scientists say just looking at a dog can boost your mood and lower stress. Which is great news, because today’s edition of JOMO Jive is basically a serotonin factory. 🐶

It’s officially year two of Mutt Madness, our completely unnecessary (yet deeply important) mission to determine the cutest dog in the Joplin area. Last year’s champion, Rusty, set the bar high. So whether you’re here to support your own pup, campaign for a friend’s dog, or just scroll through an unreasonable number of adorable faces, we’re glad you’re here for the chaos.

In today’s JOMO Jive:

• Mutt Madness First Round

• Joplin Homebuyer Assistance Program

• MO Job Center Career Fair

Let’s get to it. 🐾 

— Matt Thompson

P.S. If you find something useful in today’s Jive, please share it with someone who submitted their dog into Mutt Madness.

🐶 JOMO Jive’s Mutt Madness 2026 Begins!

The moment we’ve all been waiting for has arrived—Round One of Mutt Madness is officially underway! This year’s bracket is packed with adorable contenders, and the competition is already shaping up to be fierce. If you love dogs (and let’s be honest, who doesn’t?), now’s your chance to help decide Joplin’s cutest dog.

Click the button below to cast your votes and support your favorite furry competitor. Voting for Round One will remain open until Monday at 9:00 PM, so don’t wait too long. With so many cute dogs in the mix, every vote counts. Be sure to check Tuesday’s edition of JOMO Jive to see which pups move on to the next round! 🐾

(When you’re redirected to the bracket, click “Start Voting!” to begin voting)

🎻 Téada Brings Ireland’s Musical Traditions to Joplin

Saturday, March 14 | 7:00 PM | Beshore Performance Hall, Cornell Complex
🎟️ Tickets: $35–$40 | 212 W 7th St, Joplin

Celebrate the spirit of Ireland with Téada, one of the world’s premier traditional Irish bands. Known for electrifying performances of jigs, reels, hornpipes, and ballads, the group blends centuries-old musical traditions with fresh energy and masterful musicianship.

Led by acclaimed fiddler Oisín Mac Diarmada, Téada has performed for massive audiences across the globe—from Europe to Japan—earning a reputation for keeping Irish folk music vibrant and alive.

☘️ A perfect St. Patrick’s season concert filled with lively rhythms, storytelling, and timeless Celtic sound.

🏠 Joplin Opens New Round of Homebuyer Assistance Program

The City of Joplin has opened a new round of its Joplin Homebuyer Assistance Program (JHAP-3) to all income-eligible households looking to purchase a home within city limits. The program offers up to $40,000 in down-payment and closing-cost assistance on a first-come, first-served basis, with $1 million in total funding available. City officials encourage interested buyers to apply early before the funds are exhausted.

The program is available to low-to-moderate income households that meet federal income guidelines and plan to buy a home in Joplin. Applications can be picked up and submitted at Joplin City Hall, where applicants must provide identification and income documentation for all household members. City leaders say the program aims to reduce financial barriers to homeownership while strengthening neighborhoods and encouraging long-term investment in Joplin’s housing market.

For additional information, applicants may contact a project coordinator at lsmith1@joplinmo.org, or call 417-624-0820 ext. 1556.

📸 PhotoSpiva Juror Dan Winters to Host Portfolio Reviews and Artist Talk

Acclaimed photographer and PhotoSpiva 2026 juror Dan Winters will be in Joplin on Saturday, March 14 for a day of special events at Spiva Center for the Arts. Winters will offer a limited number of 15-minute portfolio review sessions for photographers looking for professional feedback, with Zoom sessions scheduled from 10:00 AM–12:00 PM and in-person reviews from 1:00–3:30 PM. The cost is $25 per session ($15 for Spiva members), and reservations can be made by contacting Spiva.

Later that evening, Winters will host a Juror Talk and the PhotoSpiva 2026 Awards presentation from 7:00–9:00 PM in the Freeman Health System Main Gallery. During the event, Winters will share stories from his photography career and insights into the creative process behind his work, followed by the announcement of this year’s PhotoSpiva award winners. A $10 suggested donation is requested for the evening program.

💼 Missouri Job Center Hosting Community Career Fair

Monday, March 16 & 23 | 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM | Missouri Job Center, 730 S Wall Ave, Joplin

Looking for a new job—or just curious about what opportunities are out there? The Missouri Job Center is hosting a free community career fair where job seekers can meet face-to-face with local employers actively hiring across a range of industries. About 17 employers are expected to participate, offering opportunities in fields like manufacturing, healthcare, customer service, skilled trades, and administrative work. Attendees are encouraged to bring a resume and be ready to talk with hiring managers, ask questions, and potentially line up interviews on the spot. Whether you’re seeking a fresh start or simply exploring options, this event is a great way to connect with employers right here in the Joplin area.

Learn more about Missouri Job Center.

🚧 Public Meeting Planned for I-44 Drainage and Trail Improvements

The City of Joplin and the Missouri Department of Transportation will host an open house public meeting on Thursday, March 26 from 4:30–6:00 PM at the Joplin Public Library to discuss upcoming projects in the Interstate 44 corridor. MoDOT will share plans to add a third driving lane in each direction between Main Street and Range Line Road as part of broader capacity improvements.

City officials will also present the I-44 Culvert Project, which will improve stormwater drainage while adding a pedestrian trail through the culvert to create a safer way for cyclists and walkers to cross beneath the interstate. Additional improvements include a new box culvert under Richard Joseph Boulevard and a detention basin south of the corridor. Representatives from the city and project partners will be available to answer questions about the $10 million project funded through voter-approved sales taxes.

🚧 High Street Closure for Stormwater Repairs

The 500 block of High Street between 5th and 6th Streets in Joplin is currently closed to allow for stormwater repair work. City officials say the project is expected to be completed by early April, weather permitting.

Neighborhood access to nearby homes will remain open, but drivers are encouraged to use alternate routes and use caution when traveling through the area while repairs are underway.

Friday: 🌡️ 42 | 66 ☀️

Saturday: 🌡️ 47 | 73 ☀️

Sunday: 🌡️ 28 | 65 🌧️ 70%

Upcoming:

⚾️ Baseball (9-10)
Friday 3/13 at HOME vs Washburn University | 3:00 PM
Saturday 3/14 at HOME vs Washburn University | 1:00 PM
Sunday 3/15 at HOME vs Washburn University | 1:00 PM

🥎 Softball (21-3) at Teri Mathis-Zenner MIAA/NSIC Crossover Tournament
Friday 3/13 vs St. Cloud State University | 3:00 PM
Friday 3/13 vs St. Cloud State University | 5:00 PM
Saturday 3/14 vs University of Sioux Falls (SD) | 1:00 PM
Saturday 3/14 vs University of Sioux Falls (SD) | 3:00 PM

Weekend Events

🎪 Tarzan Zerbini Circus: The traveling circus returns to the Joplin area with a high-energy show featuring elephants, horses, flying trapeze, Mongolian acrobats, clowns, aerialists, and a motorcycle stunt team. Hosted by ringmaster Joseph Bauer, the family-friendly spectacle promises classic circus thrills under the big top.

🎭 Alice @ Wonderland: Joplin Little Theatre presents a fast, funny modern twist on Lewis Carroll’s classic story, where a very contemporary Alice—with cell phone in hand—falls into the whimsical world of Wonderland. Expect all your favorite characters like the Mad Hatter, White Rabbit, and Queen of Hearts in this playful retelling for audiences of all ages.

Friday

🕵️ Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre: Step into the Roaring Twenties at Twin Hills Golf & Country Club for Death of a Gangster, an interactive mafia-themed murder mystery dinner where secrets, mobsters, and wedding drama collide. Enjoy dinner and a live show while mingling with suspects and unraveling the mystery—1920s attire encouraged for full Gatsby-era flair.

🎨 Studio 55: Open Studio: Adults ages 55+ are invited to enjoy a relaxed creative session at Spiva Center for the Arts, offering dedicated studio time to work on personal projects in a welcoming, social environment. Participants can bring their own materials or use Spiva’s supplies while connecting with fellow artists and exploring new ideas.

📸 Opening Reception: PhotoSpiva 2026 & Small Works Auction: Celebrate 50 years of the nationally recognized PhotoSpiva exhibit with an evening reception at Spiva Center for the Arts. Guests can explore the gallery, meet artists, and preview works featured in the Jo Mueller Small Works Auction while honoring the creativity of Spiva’s member artists.

Saturday

😂 Jon Lovitz Live: Comedy legend and former Saturday Night Live star Jon Lovitz brings his stand-up show to the Pavilion with an evening of sharp wit, classic characters, and stories from a four-decade career in film, television, and comedy. Known for roles in A League of Their Own, The Wedding Singer, and his iconic SNL characters, Lovitz delivers a night of laughs from one of comedy’s most recognizable voices.

🎶 Chayce Beckham Live: Country breakout star Chayce Beckham takes the stage at the Peoria Showplace at Buffalo Run Casino & Resort with his gritty country-rock sound and chart-topping hit “23.” The Season 19 American Idol winner brings heartfelt songwriting and a raw, soulful voice to a night of live country music.

🍀 St. Patrick’s Day 5K: Lace up your lucky shoes for a festive community run supporting Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Four States. Hosted with support from TAMKO Building Products, this free 5K invites runners, joggers, and walkers of all levels to participate while donations help provide comfort and care for families with seriously ill children.

🏍 Burn Down the Lot at Cycle Connection: Rev up for an action-packed day featuring live motorcycle stunt riding from the 12 O’Clock Shop Stunt Team, new bike inventory, riding gear, accessories, and fresh Cycle Connection swag. Parkie Burgers Food Truck will also be on site, making it a high-energy gathering for riders, gearheads, and anyone who loves the motorcycle scene.

🕵️ SalTea 2nd Annual Community Scavenger Hunt: Gather your friends and family for a citywide scavenger hunt starting at SalTea Sloth, where teams will follow clues to favorite local spots around town. The adventure ends with a St. Patrick’s–themed celebration at King Jack Park featuring bounce houses, face painting, food, giveaways, and a chance to win prizes—including free tea for a year.

Sunday

🌈 Paint & Sip: Rainbow: Spend a relaxing afternoon at Christine’s Vineyard creating a colorful rainbow-themed painting while enjoying drinks and good company. All supplies are provided, making this a laid-back, beginner-friendly art experience perfect for a creative outing with friends.

LIVE MUSIC LOWDOWN

Friday

Will Wadkins
HoneyPop’s Bar & Grill | 5:00 PM

Low Compatibility Duo
Christine’s Vineyard | 6:00 PM

Dillon Leggett
HoneyPop’s Bar & Grill | 6:00 PM

Mark Gibson
Beard Engine Brewing Co | 6:30 PM

Wilkie Jay
Bricks & Brews | 8:00 PM

Phil Vaught
Cherokee Casino Grove | 8:00 PM

Oreo Blue
Downstream Casino | 8:30 PM

Travis Kidd Band
Indigo Sky Casino | 9:00 PM

Saturday

Brad Hemphill
Christine’s Vineyard | 6:00 PM

Diversity Band
Turtleheads Raw Bar | 7:00 PM

Tragic Prelude
Gravy’s Place | 7:00 PM

Bobby DeGonia
Kicks Bar & Grill | 8:00 PM

Logan & Dusty
Osage Spring | 8:00 PM

Outlaws Reloaded
Downstream Casino | 8:00 PM

Soul Shaker
Cherokee Casino Grove | 8:00 PM

Ty Ellis and the Flatliners
Downstream Casino | 8:30 PM

Encore
Indigo Sky Casino | 9:00 PM

Randall Shreve
Blackthorn Pizza & Pub | 10:00 PM

Sunday

Garrick Fausett
HoneyPop’s Bar & Grill | 12:00 PM

We’d love to hear your feedback! Reply to this newsletter or take the poll to let us know how we’re doing!

Good Morning, Joplin. If you’re feeling a little off today, you’re not alone. Daylight Saving Time kicked in over the weekend, which means we all lost an hour of sleep and gained the annual debate about whether the whole thing should exist in the first place.

Some people say the extra evening sunlight is worth it. Others say they’ll need three days and a gallon of coffee to recover.

Either way, the week is officially underway—and as always, there’s plenty happening around town.

In today’s JOMO Jive:

• The circus

• A new StoryWalk

• Easter Bunny photos

• Wild horse adoptions

Let’s get to it.

— Matt Thompson

P.S. If you find something useful in today’s Jive, please share it with someone who’s been blaming Daylight Saving Time for being late, tired, hungry, and slightly emotionally unstable.

🎭 Alice @ Wonderland Comes to Joplin Little Theatre

March 12–14 | 7:30 PM
March 15 | 2:30 PM
Joplin Little Theatre | 3009 W 1st St, Joplin

What happens when a 21st-century Alice falls down the rabbit hole? Joplin Little Theatre’s Alice @ Wonderland delivers a fast, funny modern twist on Lewis Carroll’s classic tale. This playful retelling keeps all your favorite characters—the Mad Hatter, White Rabbit, and Queen of Hearts—while giving Alice a distinctly modern edge… including a cell phone in hand.

Perfect for all ages, this imaginative production blends classic storytelling with contemporary humor for a whimsical night at the theatre.

🎟️ Tickets available at the JLT box office or online.

🎭 Talley’s Folly Comes to the MSSU Stage

The Missouri Southern State University theatre department will present Talley’s Folly, the Pulitzer Prize–winning romantic drama by Lanford Wilson, with performances March 12–14 at the Bud Walton Black Box Theatre on the MSSU campus. Set in a Victorian boathouse in 1944 Missouri, the story follows a determined accountant who unexpectedly finds love and connection with Sally Talley in a heartfelt tale of honesty, humor, and hope.

Tickets are $12 general admission, $10 for seniors and MSSU staff, and $8 for students and children, while MSSU students can attend for free. Showtimes include evening performances at 7:30 PM on March 12 and 13, with a 2:00 PM matinee on March 14. Click here for more information and tickets.

🎪 Tarzan Zerbini Circus

The Tarzan Zerbini Circus is returning to the Joplin area March 12–15 with multiple performances at Cardinal Plaza in Webb City (1899 S. Madison St.). The traveling circus will bring a lineup of performers from across North America, featuring elephants and horses, aerialists, flying trapeze artists, Mongolian acrobats, clowns, and a high-energy motorcycle stunt team.

Shows are hosted by ringmaster Joseph Bauer, and tickets are now on sale with general admission starting at $25, VIP seating options available, and children ages three and under admitted free when seated on an adult’s lap. Organizers say the event promises a classic circus experience packed with family-friendly entertainment.

📚 New StoryWalk Celebration Plan at Leonard Park

Families across the Joplin area are invited to celebrate the unveiling of a new story at the Leonard Park StoryWalk on Thursday, March 12 at 9:00 AM. Hosted by One Joplin, the free event will feature crafts, interactive family activities, photo opportunities with Freeman’s Freddie the Fox, and complimentary children’s books. Community resources from Joplin Parents as Teachers will also be available for families.

The StoryWalk will highlight the book Petey Perfectpants by Kelley Donner, a playful story about individuality and confidence. Presented in partnership with Freeman Health System, Ozark Center, and Joplin Parks and Recreation, the Leonard Park StoryWalk places pages of a children’s book along a park path, encouraging families to read together while enjoying the outdoors. The event is free and open to the public.

🐰 Easter Bunny Photos Return to Northpark Mall

Spring is in the air, and families can once again visit the Easter Bunny at Northpark Mall. Easter Bunny photo sessions will run March 14 through April 4, giving families plenty of opportunities to capture a festive spring memory.

The experience features a themed “Easter Bunny’s Garden” photo set designed for family keepsakes. Reservations are encouraged to secure a time slot, though walk-ins will also be welcome throughout the season.

Click here to reserve your spot.

🐎 Wild Horse Adoption Event at Civil War Arena

The Bureau of Land Management will host a Wild Horse and Burro adoption event March 12–14 at the Civil War Arena in Carthage (11838 Civil War Ave). The event will feature a limited number of horses and burros gathered from western rangelands and made available for adoption through the agency’s placement program.

Attendees will have opportunities to view the animals, participate in competitive bidding, and adopt available horses and burros on a first-come, first-served basis. BLM staff will be on site to answer questions and assist with adoption applications, and prospective adopters are encouraged to apply in advance through the Wild Horses Online portal.

Tuesday: 🌡️ 66 | 80 ⛈️ 35%

Wednesday: 🌡️ 43 | 68 ⛈️ 75%

Thursday: 🌡️ 36 | 60 ☀️ 

Recap:

🏀 Men’s Basketball (18-13) at MIAA Championship Tournament in KC
Saturday 3/7 vs Rogers State | L 72-70

🏀 Women’s Basketball (20-10)
Friday 3/6 vs #5 Northwest Missouri | L 60-45

⚾️ Baseball (9-10)
Friday 3/6 at Northwest Missouri State University | L 8-2
Saturday 3/7 at Northwest Missouri State University | L 9-3
Sunday 3/8 at Northwest Missouri State University | L 4-3

🥎 Softball (21-3)
Saturday 3/7 at HOME vs Minnesota State University | W 7-1, W 9-1

👟Men’s & Women’s Track & Field 
Friday 3/6 - Saturday 3/7 at Harding University | Recap

Upcoming:

⚾️ Baseball (9-10)
Friday 3/13 at HOME vs Washburn University | 3:00 PM
Saturday 3/14 at HOME vs Washburn University | 1:00 PM
Sunday 3/15 at HOME vs Washburn University | 1:00 PM

🥎 Softball (21-3) at Teri Mathis-Zenner MIAA/NSIC Crossover Tournament
Friday 3/13 vs St. Cloud State University | 3:00 PM
Friday 3/13 vs St. Cloud State University | 5:00 PM
Saturday 3/14 vs University of Sioux Falls (SD) | 1:00 PM
Saturday 3/14 vs University of Sioux Falls (SD) | 3:00 PM

Tuesday

🎬 Academy Award Winners Trivia at Royale Cinema Lounge: Roll out the red carpet and test your movie knowledge with a trivia night focused on recent Oscar-winning films. Bring your friends and see how well you remember Hollywood’s biggest award winners.

🧠 Trivia Night at Tropicana Bar & Grill: Gather your team for free live trivia every Tuesday at 7:00 PM with gift card prizes on the line for the top teams. Enjoy drinks, friendly competition, and a lively pub quiz atmosphere while testing your knowledge across a mix of fun categories.

Wednesday

🎶 Milligan University Concert Choir and Heritage: Experience an inspiring evening of choral music at Park Plaza Christian Church as Milligan University’s Concert Choir and a cappella ensemble Heritage present Shelter in a Time of Storm. The program features sacred classics, spirituals, and contemporary worship pieces celebrating faith, hope, and God’s provision through life’s storms.

📺 2000’s Disney Channel Trivia: Take a trip back to the golden era of Disney Channel with a fun trivia night at B&B Theatres Joplin 7 & B-Roll Bowling. It’s free to play, open to all ages, and packed with nostalgic questions plus prizes for the top teams.

Thursday

🧠 Trivia Night at Flag City Brewing: Grab your friends and test your knowledge with a lively trivia night covering current events, music, history, pop culture, and more. Compete through rounds like crosswords, matching, and picture clues before wagering it all in the final round for a chance to win prizes.

Friday

🕵️ Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre: Step into the Roaring Twenties at Twin Hills Golf & Country Club for Death of a Gangster, an interactive mafia-themed murder mystery dinner where secrets, mobsters, and wedding drama collide. Enjoy dinner and a live show while mingling with suspects and unraveling the mystery—1920s attire encouraged for full Gatsby-era flair.

🎨 Studio 55: Open Studio: Adults ages 55+ are invited to enjoy a relaxed creative session at Spiva Center for the Arts, offering dedicated studio time to work on personal projects in a welcoming, social environment. Participants can bring their own materials or use Spiva’s supplies while connecting with fellow artists and exploring new ideas.

We’d love to hear your feedback! Reply to this newsletter or take the poll to let us know how we’re doing!

In partnership with

Want to sponsor your business in JOMO Jive? Send your inquiry to matt@jomojive.com

Good Morning, Joplin. If you needed a reminder that March is the most chaotic and magical time of year for basketball… Missouri Southern just delivered it.

The MSSU men’s team went into the MIAA Championship Tournament in Kansas City as an underdog and immediately started turning heads. The Lions pulled off two major upsets in their first two games, knocking off higher-seeded opponents and keeping their postseason run alive in dramatic fashion.

Tournament basketball always creates a little madness, but back-to-back upsets on the conference’s biggest stage is the kind of run that gets fans paying attention across the league. With the tournament still unfolding in KC, the Lions have suddenly become one of the most interesting stories in the bracket.

Let’s get to it.

— Matt Thompson

P.S. If you find something useful in today’s Jive, please share it with someone who lives for March Madness.

🎶 4 State Record Show

Saturday, March 7 | 9:00 AM–3:00 PM | Carthage Memorial Hall
📍 407 S Garrison Ave, Carthage | 🎟️ $5 admission | Kids 12 & under free

Crate diggers, this one’s for you. The 4 State Record Show returns with thousands of vinyl records, CDs, cassettes, gear, and music memorabilia from vendors across the Four-State region. Whether you’re hunting for a rare grail, filling out your collection, or just love the nostalgia of physical media, you’ll find plenty to browse.

🍔 Food trucks on site
🎁 Giveaways and merch throughout the day

Bring your friends, flip through some records, and see what treasures you uncover.

SPONSORED BY V’S BARBERSHOP

V’s Barbershop – Where Classic Meets Confidence

Step into V’s Barbershop in Joplin and experience the timeless tradition of a true gentleman’s cut. From precision fades and straight-razor shaves to hot-lather neck trims and relaxing shoulder massages, every detail is crafted for comfort and style. Whether you’re prepping for a big meeting, date night, or just want to look your best, our barbers deliver sharp results and old-school charm.

💈 Book your appointment today and rediscover what a great haircut feels like.

📍 1315 E 7th St, Joplin | 📞 (417) 553-4060 | vsbarbershop.com

🌍 Rapha Co-Founder Stephanie Freed Named Joplin’s Remarkable Woman

Stephanie Freed, co-founder and CEO of Rapha International, has been named Nexstar’s Remarkable Woman of the Year for the Joplin area by KSN 16 News. Freed began Rapha’s work more than 20 years ago after witnessing the realities of human trafficking during a research trip to Cambodia. What started as a response to that experience has grown into a global mission focused on protecting vulnerable children, caring for survivors, and strengthening systems that prevent exploitation. Freed will travel to Nashville this week to join other regional honorees, where one national Remarkable Woman will be selected.

Rapha is also inviting the community to take part in its upcoming Culture of Care Summit on Tuesday, March 24 from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM in Joplin. The one-day event will equip church leaders, volunteers, and college students with tools to recognize abuse, support survivors, and strengthen child-protection practices in ministry settings. Sessions will cover topics such as trauma-informed care and child protection policies, and participants will also have the opportunity to tour Rapha’s Hope & Healing Center. Registration is $25 and includes lunch, while college students can attend for free.

🎓 Nominations Open for Joplin Schools Alumni Hall of Fame

The Joplin Schools Foundation is now accepting nominations for the 2026 Joplin Schools Alumni Hall of Fame. Community members, alumni, staff, students, and families are encouraged to nominate graduates who have made outstanding achievements in their careers or communities. The deadline to be considered for the 2026 class is May 1.

The Hall of Fame honors alumni from Joplin High School, Lincoln School, Memorial High School, and Parkwood High School who graduated at least 25 years ago. The Foundation also recognizes individuals through a Meritorious Award for those who may not have attended Joplin Schools but have made significant contributions to the district and local education community. The 2026 inductees will be honored during a ceremony scheduled for October 15, with honorees permanently featured in the Hall of Fame installation at the Joplin High School Performing Arts Center.

Nominations can be made here.

🌿 Work Begins on Grand Falls Trail & Overlook Project

Preliminary work has begun on the upcoming Grand Falls Trail and Overlook Plaza project in Joplin, as city crews and contractors clear select trees and brush in the project area. The work follows environmental assessments and coordination with the Missouri Department of Conservation to identify native species and manage invasive plants while protecting the surrounding ecosystem. The timing also aligns with federal wildlife guidelines that limit tree removal outside the winter window to avoid impacting protected bat species.

Once completed, the project will create a 1.1-mile shared-use trail along Shoal Creek connecting to nearby paths such as the Tin Cup Trail. Plans also include a new overlook plaza near Grand Falls, featuring an elevated boardwalk, improved parking, restrooms, and trail signage to help visitors better experience Missouri’s largest continuously running waterfall. The project is funded through local Parks and Stormwater sales tax funds and a $600,000 transportation grant from Missouri Department of Transportation.

🚧 Public Meeting Set for I-44 Improvement Projects

The City of Joplin and the Missouri Department of Transportation will host an open house public meeting on Thursday, March 26 from 4:30–6:30 PM at the Joplin Public Library to discuss upcoming infrastructure improvements near Interstate 44.

MoDOT will present plans to expand Interstate 44 by adding a third driving lane in each direction between Main Street and Range Line Road. The City of Joplin will also share details about its related drainage and trail project, which includes a new culvert beneath the interstate designed to improve stormwater flow while creating a safer crossing for pedestrians and cyclists. City officials and project partners will be on hand to answer questions and gather community feedback on the $10 million project funded through local sales tax initiatives.

🌳 Free Tree Limb Drop-Off Available Monthly for Joplin Residents

Joplin residents can take advantage of the City’s free Tree Limb Drop-Off program, held the third weekend of each month (March 20 & 21) at the drop-off site located at 1702 N. Schifferdecker Avenue. The site is open Friday and Saturday from 8:30 AM to 3:00 PM, giving residents a convenient way to dispose of brush and limbs cleared from their property.

The service is available to Joplin residents only and has no load limits for tree limbs, though items like leaves, grass clippings, treated wood, railroad ties, and construction debris will not be accepted. Commercial tree-trimming contractors are also not eligible to use the site.

For those who prefer curbside disposal, residential trash service through Republic Services also accepts bundled yard waste on regular pickup days, as long as limbs are cut to four feet or less and weigh under 50 pounds per bundle.

Friday: 🌡️ 63 | 74 ⛈️ 70%

Saturday: 🌡️ 42 | 66 ⛈️ 55%

Sunday: 🌡️ 38 | 67 ☀️ 

Recap:

🏀 Men’s Basketball (17-12) at MIAA Championship Tournament in KC
Wednesday 3/4 vs #10 Northwest Missouri | W 91-85
Thursday 3/5 vs #2 University of Central Missouri | W 70-67

⚾️ Baseball (9-7)
Tuesday 3/3 at HOME vs Drury University | W 11-9

Upcoming:

🏀 Men’s Basketball (17-12) at MIAA Championship Tournament in KC
Saturday 3/7 vs winner of Rogers State & Fort Hays State on 3/6 | 8:15 PM

🏀 Women’s Basketball (19-9)
Friday 3/6 vs #5 Northwest Missouri | 12:00 PM

⚾️ Baseball (9-7)
Friday 3/6 at Northwest Missouri State University | 2:00 PM
Saturday 3/7 at Northwest Missouri State University | 2:00 PM
Sunday 3/8 at Northwest Missouri State University | 1:00 PM

🥎 Softball (19-3)
Saturday 3/7 at HOME vs Minnesota State University | 1:00 PM & 3:00 PM (DH)

👟Men’s & Women’s Track & Field 
Friday 3/6 - Saturday 3/7 at Harding University

Multi-Day Events

🎬 Great Wonders Uplift Film Fest: This three-day festival celebrates filmmakers from the 4-State region and beyond with screenings, workshops, roundtable discussions, and networking opportunities for creatives and film lovers alike. The event wraps up with an awards night celebration and a special appearance from producer and actor Kevin Downes, including a filmmaker Q&A session.

💥 Waterpark Wars: Siege and Survival: Step into a full-scale milsim battle at the old Swimmin Hole Waterpark as players split into teams to defend bases, build encampments, and fight for victory in a 50-vs-50 survival scenario. The adrenaline-packed weekend kicks off with a movie night and camping before a full day of tactical gameplay across the park’s maze-like battleground.

Friday

🌸 Color Pop & Shop: Kick off spring at the Joplin Expo with a lively market featuring 120+ boutiques and vendors, food trucks, bounce houses, alpacas, and free face painting for kids. Hosted by Zimmer Marketing, this family-friendly shopping event also supports St. Jude through event proceeds.

Saturday

🏁 Fun Drags Season Kickoff at Mo-Kan Dragway: The 2026 racing season roars to life with Saturday Fun Drags and Teen Championship Racing licensing, offering a full afternoon of grassroots drag racing excitement. Gates open at noon with racing from 1–5 PM, and admission is $10 (kids 12 and under free) for a family-friendly day at the track.

🃏 Four States Card Show: Browse sports cards, Pokémon, and other trading card collectibles at the Joplin Expo with vendors and collectors from across the region. Admission is free from 10:00 AM–6:00 PM, with a $5 early entry option for those wanting first pick of the deals.

🛍️ 2 Hip Chicks Roadshow: This popular shopping event returns with more than 80 booths featuring crafts, vintage finds, rustic décor, and boutique goods in Grove, Oklahoma. Admission is $5 (kids 13 and under free), and the first 25 guests through the door receive a swag bag filled with goodies.

🏃 Clover Run 5K/12K: Lace up for the Clover Run in Carthage, starting at the historic Route 66 Drive-In with race options for both a 5K and 12K along the scenic Ruby Jack Trail and quiet country roads. The event benefits Crosslines Ministries and Jasper County 4-H, with medals for finishers, awards, vendors, music, and raffles after the race.

🎳 Bowl for Kids’ Sake: Support the mission of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Jasper & Newton Counties by forming a 5-person team and raising funds for a fun night of bowling at Carl Richard’s 4th Street Bowl. The event features pizza, soft drinks, music, prizes, raffles, and plenty of friendly competition—all while helping create life-changing mentorships for local youth.

🙏 Higher Power Garage’s 3rd Annual Night of Worship: Join the community for a free evening of worship at Ozark Christian College featuring music led by LeAnna Tillman and treats from Dipped by the Dozen. The night will also recognize graduates of Higher Power Garage’s Jobs for Life program, celebrating individuals who have completed the employment readiness course.

🥤 Dirty Soda Drive-Thru Day: Pop It Like It’s HOT is bringing their popular dirty soda pop-up to Front Page on Main Street for a one-day drive-thru event. Swing by, follow the cones, and grab a fun custom soda mix from 1:00–4:00 PM.

LIVE MUSIC LOWDOWN

FRIDAY

Dallas Stump
Christine’s Vineyard | 6:00 PM

Ryan Wallace
Beard Engine Brewing | 6:00 PM

Lonnie Huelette
HoneyPop’s Bar & Grill | 6:00 PM

Full Throttle
Bricks & Brews | 8:00 PM

Left of Center
Stables Casino | 8:00 PM

SATURDAY

Zane Grimes
Christine’s Vineyard | 6:00 PM

Eric & Erica French
Keltoi Winery | 6:00 PM

Justin Myanatt
Turtleheads Raw Bar | 7:00 PM

Analog Rewind
Mis Arcos | 7:00 PM

Vagabond Grove
Bricks & Brews | 8:00 PM

Eric Crowley
HoneyPop’s Bar & Grill | 8:00 PM

Lorrie Morgan
Kansas Crossing Casino | 8:00 PM

Encore
Cherokee Casino | 8:00 PM

Nathan Bryce & Loaded Dice
Downstream Casino | 8:30 PM

We’d love to hear your feedback! Reply to this newsletter or take the poll to let us know how we’re doing!

In partnership with

Want to sponsor your business in JOMO Jive? Send your inquiry to matt@jomojive.com

Good Morning, Joplin. On March 3, 1931, President Herbert Hoover signed a congressional act officially making “The Star-Spangled Banner” the national anthem of the United States.

It’s wild to think the song had already existed for more than a century before becoming official. For decades, the song functioned as a de facto anthem. It was played by the military. Sung at public events. Revered nationwide. But it wasn’t until this exact date — March 3 — that it became the law of the land.

So the next time you hear those opening notes before a ballgame or ceremony, remember: it took 117 years, a war, and an act of Congress to make it official.

In today’s JOMO Jive:

• Golden Apple Awards

• Great Wonders Uplift Film Fest

• Higher Power Garage

• Prop Police & Fire

Let’s get to it.

— Matt Thompson

P.S. If you find something useful in today’s Jive, please share it with someone who was alive in 1931.

March Spa Specials from La Boussole Medical Spa & Wellness Center, Joplin  

Our curated March offerings are designed to elevate outcomes, support longevity, and deliver results that align with our physician-directed standards.

When treatments are selected with intention, results follow...

🍎 Golden Apple Awards Nominations Now Open

Nominations are officially open for the 2025–2026 Golden Apple Awards, powered by ALLO Fiber. Now in its 41st year, the program recognizes outstanding educators in Joplin’s public and private schools—and for the first time ever, Pre-K teachers are eligible to receive the honor.

Presented by the Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce and sponsored by ALLO Fiber and Missouri Southern’s Teacher Education Department, the Golden Apple Awards celebrate teachers who inspire students of all backgrounds to reach their full potential.

Students, parents, and peers are encouraged to nominate an exceptional educator before the deadline of March 9 at 5:00 PM.

🎬 Great Wonders Uplift Film Fest Returns March 5–7

Filmmakers and film lovers from across the Four-State region will gather March 5–7 for the annual Great Wonders Uplift Film Fest, hosted by Great Wonders Productions. The three-day event kicks off at 1:00 PM on Thursday, March 5, with check-in at the Route 66 Event Center in Webb City and features screenings, workshops, roundtable discussions, networking opportunities, and an awards night celebration.

This year’s special guest is Kevin Downes—actor, writer, and producer known for family-friendly, inspirational films—who will speak during awards night and host a limited-seating filmmaker Q&A on Saturday. Attendees can purchase full three-day passes, single screening blocks, day passes, or an awards-night-only ticket. The festival celebrates regional filmmaking while connecting creatives from Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas.

🔧 Higher Power Garage: Fixing Cars and Removing Barriers to Work

Higher Power Garage is more than a mechanic shop—it’s a nonprofit serving the Joplin community by providing free labor for automotive repairs and offering low-cost vehicles to qualifying families who are working at least 30 hours a week, have children at home, and do not own a registered vehicle. Through its “Barriers to Work Low-Cost Vehicle Program,” participants complete three core classes—Basic Auto Maintenance, Budgeting, and Car Ownership 101—held every six weeks at the organization’s Empowerment Campus at 1924 W. 4th Street. The nonprofit also offers a Jobs for Life course focused on employment readiness. Graduates will be recognized at the annual “Night of Worship” on March 7 at 6:00 PM at Ozark Christian College, a free community event featuring worship led by LeAnna Tillman and treats from Dipped by the Dozen.

🎉 Third Thursday Returns for Season 19 — Vendor Applications Open Now

Joplin’s favorite street festival is almost back. The 19th season of Third Thursday, presented by JoplinRecycles.com and KSN/KODE, kicks off March 19, 2026, with vendor applications closing on Wednesday, March 4.

Every third Thursday from March through October, thousands gather on Main Street in Downtown Joplin from 5:30–8:30 PM for an evening filled with local artisans, live music, entertainment, food, and family-friendly fun. This year’s season opener, “Go Green Downtown,” is sponsored by ALLO Fiber and will bring an eco-friendly theme to the celebration on March 19.

Vendors interested in being part of the 2026 season are encouraged to apply soon before the deadline.

🎨 ArtWalk Returns to Downtown Joplin for Season 19

First Thursday ArtWalk is back on Thursday, March 5 from 5:30–8:30 PM, kicking off its 19th season with a free, family-friendly evening in Historic Downtown Joplin. Multiple venues throughout the Joplin Arts District—including the Cornell Complex, Joplin Avenue Coffee Company, Urban Art Gallery, Club 609, and The Boutique Marketplace—will feature local artists, special exhibits, live music, and interactive experiences. It’s a relaxed, come-and-go event that invites you to explore downtown, meet creatives, and experience art up close. For a full list of artists, music, and special activities happening at each stop, be sure to check out the complete lineup online.

🌸 Color Pop & Shop by Zimmer Marketing

Spring kicks off in style on Friday, March 6 from 4:00–8:00 PM at the Joplin Expo with the Color Pop & Shop by Zimmer Marketing.

The four-hour event will feature more than 120 boutiques and vendors, food trucks, bounce houses, alpacas, and free face painting for kids. Organizers say it’s designed as a fun, family-friendly way to welcome the new season while shopping local.

Even better, proceeds from the event will be donated to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, adding a charitable impact to the evening’s festivities.

🌩️ Severe Weather Preparedness Week: March 2–6

Missouri and Kansas will observe Severe Weather Preparedness Week from March 2–6, highlighting the risks of thunderstorms, tornadoes, flooding, lightning, and damaging winds. Throughout the week, the National Weather Service and state emergency management agencies will share daily safety topics—ranging from how to receive weather alerts to preparing for tornadoes and flash floods.

An Annual Statewide Tornado Drill is scheduled for Wednesday, March 4 at 11:00 AM CST. However, due to the potential for real thunderstorms, the NWS Springfield area (covering far southeast Kansas and southwest Missouri) will not participate this year. In areas observing the drill, residents are encouraged to treat it like a real Tornado Warning and practice their shelter plans. The National Weather Service will initiate the drill using a Routine Weekly Test sent to NOAA Weather Radios.

🚓 Proposition Police & Fire: What Joplin Voters Should Know

Joplin voters will see Proposition Police & Fire on the ballot, a measure proposing a permanent ½-cent public safety sales tax that would replace the current “Prop B” pension sales tax once its obligations expire in 2027—resulting in no tax increase for residents or visitors. The dedicated funding would be earmarked strictly for Police, Fire, and Dispatch services, supporting staffing, pay and benefits, equipment, and facility improvements.

City officials say the proposal is aimed at stabilizing long-term public safety funding as operating costs continue to outpace general fund revenue. Current data shows Police and Fire expenditures exceed the primary 1% sales tax revenue that helps fund city operations, while departments also face staffing shortages, rising call volumes, and pay levels below regional averages. Supporters of the measure say the replacement tax would help fund additional police officers and firefighters, modernize facilities like Fire Station #3 and the police firing range, and improve wages to better retain trained personnel. If the measure does not pass, the existing tax would expire without a dedicated replacement funding source for public safety services.

Copy this link for more election information: https://www.joplinmo.org/1266/PropPoliceFire

Tuesday: 🌡️ 49 | 75 ☁️ 

Wednesday: 🌡️ 51 | 60 ⛈️ 85%

Thursday: 🌡️ 49 | 69 ⛈️ 75%

Recap:

🏀 Men’s Basketball (16-12)
Saturday 2/28 at Washburn University | L 84-74

🏀 Women’s Basketball (19-9)
Saturday 2/28 at Washburn University | L 83-64

⚾️ Baseball (8-7)
Friday 2/27 at HOME vs Northeastern State University | W 13-3
Saturday 2/28 at HOME vs Northeastern State University | W 4-3
Sunday 3/1 at HOME vs Northeastern State University | W 11-1

🥎 Softball (19-3) at Midwest College Classic in Shawnee, KS
Saturday 2/28 vs Wayne State College | W 4-2
Saturday 2/28 vs Minnesota State University Moorhead | W 8-0

👟Men’s & Women’s Track & Field 
Friday 2/27 - Sunday 3/1 at MIAA Indoor Championships | Fri Recap | Sat Recap

Upcoming:

🏀 Men’s Basketball (16-12) at MIAA Championship Tournament in KC
Wednesday 3/4 vs #10 Northwest Missouri | 8:15 PM

🏀 Women’s Basketball (19-9)
Friday 3/6 vs #5 Northwest Missouri | 12:00 PM

⚾️ Baseball (8-7)
Tuesday 3/3 at HOME vs Drury University | 3:00 PM
Friday 3/6 at Northwest Missouri State University | 2:00 PM
Saturday 3/7 at Northwest Missouri State University | 2:00 PM
Sunday 3/8 at Northwest Missouri State University | 1:00 PM

🥎 Softball (19-3)
Saturday 3/7 at HOME vs Minnesota State University | 1:00 PM & 3:00 PM (DH)

👟Men’s & Women’s Track & Field 
Friday 3/6 - Saturday 3/7 at Harding University

We’d love to hear your feedback! Reply to this newsletter or take the poll to let us know how we’re doing!

In partnership with

Want to sponsor your business in JOMO Jive? Send your inquiry to matt@jomojive.com

Good Morning, Joplin. Did you know that about two thirds of emails never get opened? So we want to thank you for opening this one!

In today’s JOMO Jive:

• Downtown Lofts Tour

• Parent-Teen Driving Workshop

• JFD is Elite

Let’s get to it.

— Matt Thompson

P.S. If you find something useful in today’s Jive, please share it with someone who remembers the Titans.

SPONSORED BY GAMBINO’S PIZZA

🍕 Gambino’s Pizza Extends the Love with Another Appreciation Weekend

After an incredible Customer Appreciation Weekend, Gambino’s Pizza in Carl Junction is keeping the momentum going. To say thank you once again, they’re offering 30% off ALL Large Pizzas Thursday through Sunday. It’s the perfect excuse for a family pizza night, game day spread, or an easy dinner without breaking the budget.

Use code THANKYOU30 when ordering and consider ordering online for the smoothest experience.

📍 Carl Junction
📞 (417) 649-7979
🔗 www.GambinosPizza.com

🎯 Joplin Gun Show Returns to the Joplin Expo

February 28–March 1 | Sat 9:00 AM–5:00 PM | Sun 9:00 AM–3:00 PM |
Joplin Expo, 101 N Rangeline Rd

The RK Shows Gun Show is back in Joplin for a full weekend of vendors, collectibles, and outdoor gear. Browse a wide selection of firearms, hunting supplies, military surplus, and accessories while connecting with knowledgeable vendors who can answer questions and help you find exactly what you need.

🎟️ Tickets: Adults $12 | Kids (6–12) $4 | VIP options available
🛡️ Security and check-in procedures in place for attendee safety

Whether you’re a collector, hunter, or outdoor enthusiast, this is a can’t-miss weekend at the Expo!

🏙️ Tickets Now on Sale for 2026 Downtown Lofts Tour

Saturday, May 2 | 2:00–6:00 PM | Downtown Joplin

The Downtown Joplin Alliance has announced that tickets are officially on sale for the 2026 Downtown Lofts Tour, a unique open house-style fundraiser offering a behind-the-scenes look at downtown living. The self-guided tour will showcase a mix of historic properties available to rent or buy, including furnished and occupied units as well as spaces still undergoing renovation—highlighting the ongoing transformation of Joplin’s historic buildings into modern lofts, condos, and apartments. Planned stops include notable locations like the Joplin Carnegie Library, Muir Building, Eureka Flats, Independent Building, Empire Block, and Pennington Lofts, with additional surprise locations to be revealed. Tickets are $25 and include access to all tour properties and a commemorative guidebook, with proceeds supporting downtown revitalization efforts.

A limited VIP rooftop reception, “Tip Top Toast,” will also be held from 7:00–9:00 PM at the Columbian Building, featuring live music, cocktails, small plates, and skyline views, with VIP tickets priced at $75 and including tour admission. Buy tickets here!

🛍️ Empire Market to Host 2026 Vendor Meetings

The Joplin Empire Market will hold its 2026 Vendor Meetings for current and prospective vendors this March, offering important information ahead of the upcoming market season. The meetings, each lasting about 90 minutes, will cover market rules and regulations, training on Debit, EBT, and Double Up Food Bucks token programs, and a Q&A session for vendors interested in selling at the producer-only market—where all goods must be grown or made by the vendor. Attendees will also learn more about the on-site Bunny & Jane Newton Community Kitchen and how to utilize the shared-use commercial kitchen space. The meetings are required for current vendors and open to anyone interested in joining the market, with light snacks provided.

Thursday, March 12 at 5:30 PM
Saturday, March 14 at 2:30 PM

🚗 Free Parent-Teen Driving Workshop This Saturday

Saturday, February 28 | 1:30–3:00 PM | Joplin Public Library

The Joplin Health Department is hosting a free Parent-Teen Missouri Graduated Driver License (GDL) presentation designed to help families navigate the early stages of teen driving. Aimed at teens ages 15–18 and their parents or grandparents, the interactive session will cover Missouri’s GDL program, tips for the learning-to-drive phase, and practical tools to build safe habits and confidence behind the wheel. The workshop is part of the First Impact initiative, which helps families understand the risks new drivers face—especially during the first 30–90 days of independent driving—and provides guidance to reduce crash risk. The event is free and open to the public, but registration is strongly encouraged. Register here!

👁️ Free Eye Mission & Wellness Event

The Joplin Lions Club and District M6 Lions Club are hosting a free Eye Mission and Wellness Event at the Joplin Association for the Blind, offering no-cost health services to the community. Attendees can receive free eye screenings and glasses, Kidsight vision checks, vitals and diabetes screenings, and hearing screenings—all with no strings attached. The event is especially geared toward individuals and families who may not be able to afford routine checkups or vision care, with organizers emphasizing accessibility and community support. Donations will be accepted, and organizers hope to reach as many residents as possible who could benefit from these essential health services.

🚒 Joplin Fire Department Maintains Elite ISO Class 2 Rating

The Joplin Fire Department has once again earned an ISO Class 2 rating following its latest hazard risk analysis, keeping the department among an elite group of just 32 fire agencies in Missouri with that designation. The department has maintained this high rating since 2016, reflecting strong performance in key areas like fire operations, water supply systems, and emergency communications.

ISO ratings, which range from 1 (best) to 10, are used by insurance companies nationwide to assess fire protection capabilities and potential risk. A lower rating like Class 2 signals a higher level of preparedness and can help influence lower insurance costs for homes and businesses. City officials say the continued rating highlights the department’s training, response standards, and coordination with dispatch and water services to provide top-tier fire protection for the Joplin community.

🚧 Zora Street Improvement Project to Begin March 3

An improvement project on E. Zora Street between Duquesne Road/Hall Street and MO-249 will begin Tuesday, March 3, bringing a full closure to through traffic during the first phase of construction. Drivers accessing the Joplin/Webb City Industrial Park via MO-249 will be detoured using Newman Road to Duquesne Road/Hall Street or Highway 171 to Madison Street, while other traffic will be routed via Newman Road to Range Line Road. Local access to homes and businesses along Zora Street will remain open throughout the project, though traffic patterns and closures may shift as work progresses. The $2.8 million project, funded by the Capital Improvement Sales Tax approved in 2014, is expected to be completed this fall and aims to improve safety and traffic flow in the corridor.

Friday: 🌡️ 42 | 73 ☀️

Saturday: 🌡️ 48 | 72 ☀️

Sunday: 🌡️ 39 | 56 🌧️ 70%

🦁 Lion Pride Giving Challenge Returns to Support MSSU Student-Athletes

Missouri Southern State University Athletics has launched its 2026 Lion Pride Giving Challenge, running February 23 through March 2, inviting alumni, fans, and community supporters to help fund resources that directly enhance the student-athlete experience. Each athletic program has set specific fundraising goals to support areas like training equipment, travel, nutrition, and facility upgrades, with past challenges raising more than $225,000 from over 500 donors.

Supporters can contribute by donating, sharing on social media, or participating in special Give Back Days at Club 609 (Feb. 24) and Raising Cane’s on Range Line (Feb. 25 from 4:00–9:00 PM), where a portion of proceeds will benefit MSSU Athletics when the fundraiser is mentioned or the promo code is used. Organizers say every gift—large or small—helps provide the tools and opportunities Lions need to succeed both on the field and in the classroom.

Recap:

🏀 Men’s Basketball (16-11)
Wednesday 2/25 at University of Central Missouri | L 95-69

🏀 Women’s Basketball (19-8)
Wednesday 2/25 at University of Central Missouri | L 73-64

Upcoming:

🏀 Men’s Basketball (16-11)
Saturday 2/28 at Washburn University | 1:00 PM

🏀 Women’s Basketball (19-8)
Saturday 2/28 at Washburn University | 3:00 PM

⚾️ Baseball (5-7)
Friday 2/27 at HOME vs Northeastern State University | 2:00 PM
Saturday 2/28 at HOME vs Northeastern State University | 1:00 PM
Sunday 3/1 at HOME vs Northeastern State University | 1:00 PM

🥎 Softball (17-3) at Midwest College Classic in Shawnee, KS
Saturday 2/28 vs Wayne State College | 2:30 PM
Saturday 2/28 vs Minnesota State University Moorhead | 4:45 PM
Sunday 3/1 vs Truman State University | 10:00 AM
Sunday 3/1 vs Augustana University (SD) | 12:15 PM

👟Men’s & Women’s Track & Field 
Friday 2/27 - Sunday 3/1 at MIAA Indoor Championships

Friday

💃 Latin Night – February at Vino Noir: Kick off your Friday with beginner-friendly Latin dance lessons at 7:00 PM followed by open dancing to salsa, bachata, and Latin favorites in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. No partner or experience needed—just come as you are and enjoy a fun night of music, movement, and good vibes downtown.

🔥February Hat Burning Workshop: Get creative with a fun night of hat burning, design, and charcuterie from 6:00–8:00 PM as you customize your own wide brim hat or ballcap. Your $50 ticket includes three accessories from the embellishment bar, snacks, stencils, and all tools needed for a stylish, hands-on girls’ night or crafty evening out.

Saturday

☕ February Cars & Coffee: Kick off the first Cars & Coffee of 2026 at Flagship Auto Group in Neosho with free coffee, doughnuts, and a relaxed morning of cool cars and community. Bring your daily driver or your show car—everyone is welcome to join the fun.

🏃‍♀️ Girls Run Joplin: Join Girls Run Joplin at 9:00 AM for a 3-mile run or walk along Tin Cup Trail, meeting in the backside parking lot of the Joplin Family YMCA. It’s a welcoming, feel-good group run perfect for all paces, whether you’re running, jogging, or walking.

🧲 Saturday Shenanigans at Vintage Goods: Join the fun from 4:30–6:30 PM at Vintage Goods for a crafty night creating your own vintage-style magnets with Delissa. Your $30 ticket includes a metal easel and 10 magnets, plus all-day storewide specials—bring your favorite snacks and drinks and get ready for some creative shenanigans.

🌳 Climb Joplin!: Head to Wildcat Glades Conservation & Audubon Center at 10:00 AM for a free, hands-on day celebrating recreational tree climbing in a safe, professional setting. Watch local climbing arborists train, enjoy fun activities like Throwline Horse and Monkey Tag, and stick around for a possible mock aerial rescue demonstration to close out the event.

🕵️ Murder at the Spell Ball: Step into a glamorous, interactive mystery night at 6:00 PM at the Minnie Hackney Community Service Center, where guests take on fun roles to help solve a surprise whodunnit during NALA Read’s signature Spell Ball fundraiser. Enjoy food, laughter, and plenty of twists while supporting adult literacy programs in the Joplin community.

Sunday

🌵 Paint & Sip: Cute Heart Cactus: Enjoy a relaxing and creative afternoon at Christine’s Vineyard from 1:00–3:00 PM as you paint an adorable heart cactus design with all supplies provided. Sip your favorite drinks, unwind with friends, and create a fun take-home piece in a beginner-friendly, laid-back setting.

🎣 Morse Park Trout Season Kickoff: Cast your line bright and early at Morse Park in Neosho as the city officially kicks off trout season with a siren start near the Coler Street & Dean Keeling Drive bridge. Enjoy coffee and donuts from Parks & Rec while anglers of all ages gather for a fun, community-focused morning on the water (valid fishing and trout permits required for ages 16–64 unless exempt).

LIVE MUSIC LOWDOWN

Friday

Payton Joy
HoneyPop’s Bar & Grill | 5:00 PM

March to August
Beard Engine Brewing Co | 6:00 PM

Kylie Ast
Vino Noir | 7:00 PM

Cannon-Goff Trio
Bricks & Brews | 7:00 PM

Outlaws Reloaded
Downstream Casino | 7:00 PM

Blues Doctors
Stables Casino | 8:00 PM

Sunset Circle and Deill Street Collective
Blackthorn Pizza & Pub | 10:00 PM

Saturday

Eric & Erica French
Joplin Empire Market | 10:00 AM

Dance Monkey Dance
Chaos Brewing | 7:00 PM

Chris Bassett
Bricks & Brews | 7:00 PM

Jeff Tatum & Palomino Moon Band
River Bend Casino | 7:00 PM

Carvin Jones
The Main Event | 7:30 PM

Zane Grimes
HoneyPop’s Bar & Grill | 8:00 PM

The Fabulous Two Man Band
Buffalo Run Casino | 8:00 PM

The Mixtapes
Kansas Crossing Casino | 8:00 PM

Travis Kidd
Cherokee Casino | 8:00 PM

Bobby DeGonia
Grand Lake Casino | 9:00 PM

Rage is My Rival and SSX
Blackthorn Pizza & Pub | 10:00 PM

We’d love to hear your feedback! Reply to this newsletter or take the poll to let us know how we’re doing!

In partnership with

Want to sponsor your business in JOMO Jive? Send your inquiry to matt@jomojive.com

Good Morning, Joplin. The 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan gave us a masterclass in dominance — and it came from Team USA’s women. American women racked up a record-setting medal haul in women’s events, winning the majority of Team USA’s 33 total medals and bringing home six golds while outperforming the men for the third straight Winter Games. Meanwhile, here’s a wild stat to chew on with your coffee: the last time the U.S. won Olympic gold in men’s hockey, eggs cost $0.84, Meryl Streep was on the verge of her first Oscar, and Tom Brady hadn’t even started preschool.

In today’s JOMO Jive:

• Bloom Flights

• 2026 Freeman 5K & Walk for Autism

• Final Week of Spiva’s Winter Exhibits

Let’s get to it.

— Matt Thompson

P.S. If you find something useful in today’s Jive, please share it with someone who still has a rotary phone.

SPONSORED BY BLOOM JGH

Meet Bloom Flights!
Four different flavors, one flight, endless ways to try what Bloom does best. Available hot or iced, and perfect for sipping, sharing, and discovering a new favorite.

We’ve got two pre-picked flights ready to go:

The Latte Flight — Lavender Blossom • Bee’s Knees • Caramel Macchiato • Cinnamon Roll Latte

The Matcha Flight — Lavender • Sugar Cookie • Brown Sugar • Maple Syrup

Feeling creative? Build Your Own Flight. Pick any four drinks and mix & match matcha-based and espresso-based drinks, hot or iced. Trying every drink on the menu just got a whole lot easier.

Flights are a for-here experience only and will not be made to-go. 

🕵️‍♂️ Aquila Theatre Presents: The Hound of the Baskervilles

Thursday, February 26 | 7:00 PM | Beshore Performance Hall, Cornell Complex
🎟️ Tickets: $50–$55 | 212 W 7th St, Joplin

Sherlock Holmes hits the stage in a thrilling (and comedic) retelling of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s The Hound of the Baskervilles. This inventive “play within a play” follows Holmes, Watson, and friends as they reenact the infamous Baskerville case—complete with suspense, humor, and audience participation.

Performed by the internationally acclaimed Aquila Theatre, known for touring top-tier classical productions across 50+ U.S. cities, this foggy moor mystery promises twists, laughs, and edge-of-your-seat storytelling. A must-see for theater and mystery fans alike.

🏁 Theme Announced for 2026 Freeman 5K & Walk for Autism

Freeman Health System has unveiled the theme for this year’s Freeman 5K and Walk for Autism: “Zero to Zoom,” a racing-inspired celebration supporting autism services in the Joplin community. The annual event benefits the Leffen Center for Autism, helping fund program development, diagnostic services, treatment, and scholarships for families. Registration for individuals and teams is now open, and race day will once again feature more than just the run and walk, including a car show, vendor fair, activities, and raffle baskets. Organizers say the event continues to grow each year, with strong fundraising efforts directly supporting local children and families impacted by autism.

🏆 Chamber Opens Nominations for Citizen of the Year & Business of the Year

The Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce is now accepting nominations for two of its signature annual honors, recognizing the individuals, businesses, and nonprofits that help move the Joplin community forward. Here’s how to nominate and what to know:

🏅 Citizen of the Year (Powered by Guaranty Bank)
This award recognizes an individual who is making a positive, lasting impact through leadership, service, and community involvement. Nominations will be reviewed by a panel of Chamber members and are due by Friday, February 27. Click here for the Citizen of the Year nomination form.

🏢 Business of the Year (Powered by Forvis Mazars)
These awards celebrate the contributions of local businesses and nonprofits to Joplin’s economy and overall progress. Honors will be given to one small business (1–50 employees), one large business (51+ employees), and one nonprofit. Finalists will be evaluated on community impact, innovation, leadership philosophy, employee involvement, and response to challenges. Nominations are due by Wednesday, February 26. Click here for the Business of the Year nomination form.

🕵️‍♀️ Murder Mystery Dinner to Benefit NALA Read

Saturday, February 28 | 6:00 PM | Minnie Hackney Community Service Center

Joplin NALA Read is hosting an interactive Murder Mystery Dinner, “Murder at the Spell Ball,” inviting guests to step into a fun evening of clues, characters, and community impact. Inspired by NALA Read’s long-running Spell Ball tradition, the event assigns attendees playful roles—like competitors, donors, and celebrity philanthropists—as they work together to solve the mystery (no acting experience required). The evening includes a full meal and an engaging, all-ages experience, with tickets priced at $30 per person or $50 per couple. Proceeds support NALA Adult Literacy’s free tutoring, classes, and resources for adults building reading and writing skills in the Joplin community.

🎨 Final Week to Explore Spiva’s Winter Exhibits

This week is the last chance to experience several of Spiva Center for the Arts’ current winter exhibits, which highlight everything from student creativity and interactive art to professional educators and a major retrospective from featured artist Jane Troup. Together, these exhibits showcase the power of art education, imagination, and lifelong creativity across multiple galleries before they wrap up at the end of February.

🖌️ Jane Troup: Return to Innocence (Freeman Health System Main Gallery | Through Feb. 28)
This featured exhibition presents decades of work by Jane Troup, exploring nature, balance, and the quiet rhythms of the natural world. Her paintings invite viewers to slow down, reflect, and reconnect with curiosity, wonder, and a sense of openness inspired by the landscapes and patterns around us. An Artist Talk is also scheduled for February 28 at 11:00 AM.

👩‍🏫 Those Who Can…Teach: The Work of Art Educators (Sharon & Lance Beshore Gallery | Through Feb. 27)
This exhibit celebrates the creativity of K–12, college, and university art educators whose influence extends beyond the classroom. Featuring a wide range of media—from painting to pottery—it highlights both their professional artistic practice and their lasting impact on the next generation of artists.

🧒 Third Grade Collaborative Project (Jo Mueller Reserve Gallery | Through Feb. 28)
A Spiva winter tradition for more than 20 years, this large-scale collaboration involves over 1,700 students from multiple school districts and homeschool programs. Inspired this year by Jane Troup, third graders create their own artwork and get the unforgettable experience of seeing their pieces displayed in the gallery as exhibiting artists. A come-and-go reception will be held February 28 from 10:00 AM–5:00 PM.

🎭 Invitation to Play: An Interactive Exhibit (Harry M. Cornell Gallery | Through Feb. 28)
Designed to spark imagination for all ages, this interactive exhibit uses light, shadow, color, and nostalgic materials to encourage hands-on exploration. While welcoming to everyone, it especially invites teens and adults to reconnect with play as a tool for creativity, problem-solving, and fresh perspective.

🚴 Joplin Trails Coalition Hosts Annual Public Meeting

Tuesday, February 24 | 6:00 PM | Joplin Public Library Community Room

The Joplin Trails Coalition is inviting the public to its annual meeting at the Joplin Public Library, where attendees can hear updates on the FGT-RJ Connector Project, learn about 2026 trail plans, and share input on local trail priorities. The meeting will also include membership updates and a chance for community members to engage in future trail development discussions. A live stream will be available on the Coalition’s page, with a recording posted to their website and YouTube channel within 24 hours.

💻 Joplin’s Online Sales Tax Surpasses Expectations, Reaching $25 Million

Four years after voters approved Joplin’s use tax on online purchases, the program has generated nearly $25 million in revenue, more than doubling the city’s original projections. The tax, which took effect in 2021, was initially expected to bring in around $3 million annually but has exceeded that mark as more residents shift toward online shopping.

City leaders say the additional revenue has helped fund key community priorities, including public safety staffing and equipment, transportation improvements, parks, beautification projects, public art, and housing initiatives like the Joplin Housing Assistance and Homeowner Rehabilitation programs. Officials note the use tax mirrors the local sales tax rate and is designed to capture revenue from online purchases that would otherwise bypass local tax collection. Overall, the funding supports the city’s broader long-term goals tied to economic development, neighborhood improvement, homelessness response, and maintaining stable, resilient revenue for community services.

Tuesday: 🌡️ 29 | 61 💨 

Wednesday: 🌡️ 40 | 65 ☁️ 

Thursday: 🌡️ 41 | 61 ⛅️

Recap:

🏀 Men’s Basketball (16-10)
Saturday 2/21 at HOME vs University of Nebraska at Kearney | W 101-92

🏀 Women’s Basketball (19-7)
Saturday 2/21 at HOME vs University of Nebraska at Kearney | W 75-69

⚾️ Baseball (5-7)
Friday 2/20 at Rogers State University | L 9-1
Saturday 2/21 at Rogers State University | W 9-3
Sunday 2/22 at Rogers State University | L 8-7

🥎 Softball (17-3) MIAA/GLVC Crossover @ Joplin High School
Friday 2/20 at Joplin HS vs University of Missouri - St. Louis | W 11-3
Friday 2/20 at Joplin HS vs University of Missouri - St. Louis | W 10-2
Saturday 2/21 at Joplin HS vs McKendree University | L 8-4
Saturday 2/21 at Joplin HS vs McKendree University | L 6-3

👟 Men’s and Women’s Track & Field @ Arkansas Qualifier
Friday 2/20 and Saturday 2/21 at Fayetteville, AR | Recap | Final Results

Upcoming:

🏀 Men’s Basketball (16-10)
Wednesday 2/25 at University of Central Missouri | 7:30 PM
Saturday 2/28 at Washburn University | 1:00 PM

🏀 Women’s Basketball (19-7)
Wednesday 2/25 at University of Central Missouri | 5:30 PM
Saturday 2/28 at Washburn University | 3:00 PM

⚾️ Baseball (5-7)
Friday 2/27 at HOME vs Northeastern State University | 2:00 PM
Saturday 2/28 at HOME vs Northeastern State University | 1:00 PM
Sunday 3/1 at HOME vs Northeastern State University | 1:00 PM

🥎 Softball (17-3) at Midwest College Classic in Shawnee, KS
Saturday 2/28 vs Wayne State College | 2:30 PM
Saturday 2/28 vs Minnesota State University Moorhead | 4:45 PM
Sunday 3/1 vs Truman State University | 10:00 AM
Sunday 3/1 vs Augustana University (SD) | 12:15 PM

👟Men’s & Women’s Track & Field 
Friday 2/27 - Sunday 3/1 at MIAA Indoor Championships

Wednesday

☕ Make Your Own Mug at Indian Springs Brewing: Craft your own handmade mug with guidance from Clay Cup Potters. Your $45 registration includes all materials, kiln firing, and a drink of your choice, with finished mugs ready for pickup in about 3–4 weeks. To sign up, send Indian Springs a message on Facebook.

🧠 Joplin Trivia Night at Tropicana Bar & Grill: Test your knowledge every Tuesday at 7 PM with free live trivia, gift card prizes for top teams, and plenty of friendly competition. Grab your crew, enjoy a drink, and play for bragging rights in a fun, casual pub quiz atmosphere.

🔪 Scream Movie Trivia at B&B Theatres: Test your horror knowledge with a night of Scream-themed trivia on Wednesday, February 25 at 7:30 PM. It’s free to play with prizes for winners, plus food and drinks available for purchase while you play.

Thursday

🎤 Open Mic Night at Joplin Avenue Coffee Company: Local singer-songwriters, poets, and performers of all ages are invited to share their talents or simply enjoy a night of creative expression and community support. Sign-ups begin at 6:30 PM, making it a perfect evening to discover Joplin’s local voices in a cozy coffeehouse setting.

🎸 Early All Ages Show at Blackthorn Pizza & Pub: Catch The Rumours, Brutally Frank, and Bellwether Sirens live starting at 6:30 PM for an energetic night of local music. All ages are welcome until 10:00 PM, with tickets $10 in advance or $15 at the door.

Friday

🔥February Hat Burning Workshop: Get creative with a fun night of hat burning, design, and charcuterie from 6:00–8:00 PM as you customize your own wide brim hat or ballcap. Your $50 ticket includes three accessories from the embellishment bar, snacks, stencils, and all tools needed for a stylish, hands-on girls’ night or crafty evening out.

We’d love to hear your feedback! Reply to this newsletter or take the poll to let us know how we’re doing!

In partnership with

Want to sponsor your business in JOMO Jive? Send your inquiry to matt@jomojive.com

Good Morning, Joplin. Did you know that the Soviet Union was so dominant in the Olympics that if you sum all medals ever earned (summer and winter), it still ranks second even though it hasn’t competed since 1988? You already know who owns first 🇺🇸 

In today’s JOMO Jive:

• Four States Finest

• Joplin Community Resource Guide for Youth

• Dress to Impress

• New indoor golf lounge

Let’s get to it.

— Matt Thompson

P.S. If you find something useful in today’s Jive, please share it with someone who hasn’t yet entered Mutt Madness (unless you’re afraid their dog is cuter than yours).

SPONSORED BY GAMBINO’S PIZZA

🍕 Customer Appreciation Weekend

Gambino’s Pizza in Carl Junction is rolling out one of their biggest promos of the year with a Customer Appreciation Weekend packed with major pizza savings. Starting Thursday, enjoy 30% off large pizzas, 35% off on Friday, and a massive 50% off all large pizzas on Saturday and Sunday. It’s their way of saying thank you to the community that continues to support local.

Use code THANKYOU when ordering. Ordering online is recommended due to high demand.

📍 Carl Junction | 📞 (417) 649-7979
🔗 www.GambinosPizza.com

🎤 Storyteller Showcase: Song Wrapped in Story

Saturday, February 21 | 7:00–8:30 PM | Zinc Coffee, 1825 S Main St, Joplin
🎟️ FREE to attend

Experience live music in its most personal form at this intimate songwriter showcase presented by Club 1201, Zinc Coffee, and Palen Music. Each artist shares not just their songs—but the stories, inspiration, and meaning behind them.

Featuring a rotating lineup of regional talent including Trevor C. Smith (host), Caleb Miller (Vagabond Grove), Eric & Erica French, and Zane Grimes.

Expect a cozy, acoustic-style evening filled with heart, creativity, and community connection—perfect for music lovers who enjoy the story as much as the song.

🏆 Four States Finest Voting Now Open

The 2026 Four States Finest Viewer Choice Awards are officially underway, giving the community a chance to support their favorite local businesses, organizations, and favorites across the region. The top three nominees in each category (plus a fourth in the event of a tie) have advanced to the final voting round, and now it’s up to the public to decide the winners. Voting is open February 5 through February 22, 2026, so be sure to cast your votes and show some love to the local standouts that make the Four States area shine. Click here to vote!

💻 Joplin JAG Students Launch Website to Help Homeless Youth Find Resources

Students in Joplin’s Jobs for America's Graduates (JAG) program have created a new website designed to connect homeless youth with local resources after realizing how difficult that information was to find. The student-led project brings together listings from city leaders and local nonprofits into one easy-to-use hub, with details on services, eligibility, and transportation options—one of the biggest barriers they identified. Completed as a volunteer community service effort, the site aims to close information gaps and make it easier for vulnerable youth in Joplin to access support, housing help, and essential services when they need it most. Check out the site here.

👔 Volunteers Needed for MSSU’s “Dress to Impress”

Set-Up: Feb. 23–24 | Event Day: Wednesday, February 25 | Billingsly Student Center, Connor Ballroom

Missouri Southern State University is looking for volunteers to help with its annual Dress to Impress event, which provides free professional clothing to students preparing for career fairs and job opportunities. Volunteers are needed to sort and organize donated clothing on Monday and Tuesday, and again on Wednesday, February 25 to assist with setup, personal shopping, and mentoring students on workplace attire. Donations of gently used professional clothing, shoes, jewelry, and financial contributions are also being accepted through February 23 at Career Services in Hearnes Hall, Room 308.

🐶 Mutt Madness Update: Spots Still Open!

The bracket is filling up, but Mutt Madness still has spots available for this year’s competition. We’re only accepting 64 total dogs, with one entry per person and entries locked in on a first-come, first-served basis. We’ve already had some adorable pups enter (see above 👀), which begs the question… do you think your dog is cuter than these? It’s completely free to sign up, and once the bracket is full, registration closes—so don’t wait. Click below and get your pup in the running for Joplin’s cutest dog.

⛳ Grand Opening: The Green Standard Golf Lounge

Friday, February 20 | 11:00 AM–8:00 PM | 410 E. 7th St., Ste D

Swing by for the Grand Opening of The Green Standard Golf Lounge, Joplin’s newest indoor golf destination, kicking off with a ribbon cutting alongside the Chamber of Commerce at 11:00 AM. Guests can enjoy free golf all day, plus food, giveaways, and prizes while exploring the new space and simulators. It’s an all-day celebration designed for golfers, beginners, and anyone curious to check out a fresh addition to downtown’s entertainment scene.

Friday: 🌡️ 25 | 45 ☀️

Saturday: 🌡️ 29 | 44 ☀️

Sunday: 🌡️ 24 | 42 ☀️ 

Recap:

🏀 Men’s Basketball (15-10)
Thursday 2/19 at HOME vs Fort Hays State University | W 64-60

🏀 Women’s Basketball (18-7)
Thursday 2/19 at HOME vs Fort Hays State University | W 78-67

⛳️ Men’s Golf
Monday 2/16 and Tuesday 2/17 at Men’s Rattler Invitational | Recap | Final Results

Upcoming:

🏀 Men’s Basketball (15-10)
Saturday 2/21 at HOME vs University of Nebraska at Kearney | 3:30 PM

🏀 Women’s Basketball (18-7)
Saturday 2/21 at HOME vs University of Nebraska at Kearney | 1:30 PM

⚾️ Baseball (4-5)
Friday 2/20 at Rogers State University | 2:00 PM
Saturday 2/21 at Rogers State University | 2:00 PM
Sunday 2/22 at Rogers State University | 1:00 PM

🥎 Softball (15-1) MIAA/GLVC Crossover @ Joplin High School
Friday 2/20 at Joplin HS vs University of Missouri - St. Louis | 3:00 PM
Friday 2/20 at Joplin HS vs University of Missouri - St. Louis | 5:00 PM
Saturday 2/21 at Joplin HS vs McKendree University | 1:00 PM
Saturday 2/21 at Joplin HS vs McKendree University | 3:00 PM

👟 Men’s and Women’s Track & Field @ Arkansas Qualifier
Friday 2/20 and Saturday 2/21 at Fayetteville, AR

Saturday

🧠 Boys & Girls Club Trivia Night: Gather your team and head to the BGC Gym for a fun night of trivia, friendly competition, and community support, with doors at 6:30 PM and games starting at 7:00 PM. Tickets are $15 per person (up to 8 per team), and guests can enjoy a nacho bar, drinks for purchase, raffles, and a lively atmosphere benefiting a great local cause.

🎶 Matt Mason Live at Buffalo Run: Country artist Matt Mason takes the stage at Buffalo Run Casino & Resort at 8:00 PM, bringing his authentic heartland sound and Nashville-honed storytelling to the Peoria Showplace. Doors open at 7:00 PM, with tickets starting around $13, making it an easy night out for fans of classic and modern country.

🛍️ Handmade & Vintage Market (Indoor Swap Meet): Browse a wide mix of vintage finds, handmade crafts, and unique goods from local vendors at Carthage Memorial Hall, with free admission from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM. This winter market runs November through March and is a great way to shop local, connect with the community, and discover one-of-a-kind treasures indoors.

🧠 Trivia Night at Joplin Greenhouse: Trivia is back with doors opening at 5:00 PM and games kicking off at 5:30 PM at Joplin Greenhouse & The Coffee Shop. Expect drinks, treats, friendly competition, and prizes for the top teams in a cozy, community-focused setting.

Sunday

🎨 Paint & Sip: Moonlight Margarita: Enjoy a relaxing and creative afternoon at Christine’s Vineyard from 1:00–3:00 PM as you paint a “Moonlight Margarita” design with all supplies included. Sip your favorite drinks (available for purchase), bring your friends, and enjoy a beginner-friendly art experience in a cozy vineyard setting.

Monday

🐍 New Year, No Fear: Join Wildcat Glades for an educational presentation that explores common myths about snakes and their important role in the ecosystem, led by conservationist and snake enthusiast Cameron Kruse. Best suited for ages 15 and up, this thoughtful talk aims to replace fear with understanding through science, discussion, and real ecological insight.

LIVE MUSIC LOWDOWN

Friday

Robbi Bell
HoneyPop’s Bar & Grill | 5:00 PM

Drew Baxter
Beard Engine Brewing Co | 6:30 PM

Low Compatibility
Gusano’s | 7:00 PM

Big Smitty
Bricks & Brews | 7:00 PM

Lyal Strickland
Osage Spring | 8:00 PM

Left of Center
HoneyPop’s Bar & Grill | 8:00 PM

Incognito
Kansas Crossing Casino | 8:00 PM

Mix Tape 918
Downstream Casino | 8:30 PM

Red Letters
Indigo Sky Casino | 9:00 PM

Basset Hound
Blackthorn Pizza & Pub | 10:00 PM

Saturday

Grace & Gravy
Joplin Empire Market | 10:00 AM

The Forget-Me-Nots
Joplin Empire Market | 12:00 PM

Steel Horizon
Keltoi Winery | 6:00 PM

Wilkie Jay
Gravy’s Place | 7:00 PM

Analog Frogs
Bricks & Brews | 7:00 PM

Chris Bassett
The Living Room | 8:00 PM

The Blue Underground
Osage Spring | 8:00 PM

Red Letters
Downstream Casino | 8:30 PM

Sound the Alarm
Indigo Sky Casino | 9:00 PM

Here, Now and Lemonade Crush
Blackthorn Pizza & Pub | 10:00 PM

Sunday

Zane Grimes Band
Rumors Cocktail Lounge | 2:00 PM

We’d love to hear your feedback! Reply to this newsletter or take the poll to let us know how we’re doing!

In partnership with

Want to sponsor your business in JOMO Jive? Send your inquiry to matt@jomojive.com

Good Morning, Joplin. Sometimes you win. Sometimes you lose. And sometimes you end up having to eat your words when you say the wrong thing. That’s what I’m doing after I said “Why on Earth does no coffee shop in Joplin offer a coffee flight?” in last Friday’s intro. As it turns out, Bloom JGH has been offering coffee flights and matcha flights since December (double burn). And, as promised, they’ll get a free story in an upcoming edition of JOMO Jive! Be on the lookout!

In today’s JOMO Jive:

• Boys & Girls Club Trivia Night

• Joplin Miracle League

• Grove Home, Garden & Travel Show

Let’s get to it.

— Matt Thompson

P.S. If you find something useful in today’s Jive, please share it with someone who has been keeping up with the Olympics.

🧠 Boys & Girls Club Trivia Night

Friday, February 21 | Doors 6:30 PM | 317 Comingo Ave.

The Boys & Girls Club of Southwest Missouri is hosting a community Trivia Night on February 21, inviting teams of up to eight for an evening of fun, friendly competition, and local impact. With a variety of trivia categories, a relaxed atmosphere, and a nacho bar to enjoy during social time, the event is designed for everyone—from trivia pros to casual players. All proceeds stay right here in the community, supporting after-school programs, mentoring, homework help, and enrichment opportunities that help local kids and teens thrive. Advanced team registration is encouraged.

SPONSORED BY WINDOWS & MORE

🏡 Upgrade Your Home with Windows & More

If you’ve been thinking about new windows, doors, or siding, Windows & More is a trusted local team that makes the process simple from start to finish! With over 50 years of combined local experience, owners Zak Porath and Chris Green focus on quality products, clear communication, and results that truly improve your home’s look and efficiency. From energy-efficient replacement windows and seamless gutters to patio covers, siding, and water management solutions, they do more than the name suggests!

Get a free estimate today at (417) 208-8577 or visit windowsandmore.llc.com

⚾ Volunteers Needed for Miracle League Season

The Miracle League of Joplin is gearing up for its upcoming season and is now looking for volunteers to serve as “buddies” for players. The six-week season kicks off April 11 at Will Norton Miracle Field, giving children and adults with developmental disabilities the chance to play baseball in a fun, supportive environment. Buddies help players with fielding, running the bases, and overall encouragement during games, allowing families to relax and enjoy the experience. Individuals and groups are both welcome to sign up and make a meaningful impact this spring. Learn more or sign up here.

🏡 Grove Home, Garden & Travel Show Returns for 28th Year

Feb. 20–21 | Wolf Creek Expo Center (1601 Sunrise Blvd., Grove, OK)

If you missed the Joplin Home Show—or just want more ideas—the 28th Annual Grove Home, Garden & Travel Show is back this weekend, bringing more than 100 vendors to the Wolf Creek Expo Center. Hosted by the Grove Area Chamber of Commerce, the event highlights home improvement, landscaping, outdoor living, travel, recreation, and local attractions, with experts available to talk trends and upcoming projects. Attendees can also enjoy hourly door prizes and raffle opportunities throughout the weekend. The show runs Friday from 1:00–8:00 PM and Saturday from 10:00 AM–7:00 PM, with $5 admission (kids 16 and under free with a parent).

🎒 Chamber Gives Back: Volunteer with Bright Futures Joplin

Tuesday, February 18 | 8:30 AM-10:00 AM | Nutrition Services Warehouse (1420 Broadway Street)

Chamber members are invited to roll up their sleeves for the next Chamber Gives Back project, supporting Bright Futures Joplin by packing weekend snack bags for local students in need. The volunteer session typically takes about 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on the number of helpers and bags to be packed, and offers a simple, hands-on way to make a direct impact in the community.

🌳 Free Tree Limb Drop-Off Set for Feb. 20–21

Friday & Saturday, February 20–21 | 8:30 AM–3:00 PM | 1702 N. Schifferdecker Ave.

The City of Joplin is opening its monthly Tree Limb Drop-Off Site for residents looking to clear winter brush and fallen limbs. The free service is available Friday and Saturday, February 20–21, and is open to Joplin residents only with no load limits on limbs. However, items like leaves, grass clippings, treated wood, railroad ties, and construction debris will not be accepted, and the site is not intended for contractors or commercial tree services. The drop-off program runs the third weekend of each month year-round, offering a convenient way for residents to dispose of yard debris after seasonal cleanup.

For more information about the drop-off program, call the Recycling Center at 417-624-0820 ext. 1501. To learn more about the bulky item curbside pickup, call Republic Services at 800-431-1507.

🏛️ City Council to Hold Key Vote on Wildwood Ranch Data Center Proposal

Tuesday | 6:00 PM | Corley Auditorium, Missouri Southern State University

The Joplin City Council is set to take up the second and third readings of the annexation and rezoning proposal tied to a potential data center at Wildwood Ranch during its relocated meeting at Missouri Southern State University’s Corley Auditorium. The proposal involves roughly 540 acres near Central City Road West and West 20th Street and follows an earlier council vote that advanced the project after a lengthy public meeting. City officials moved the meeting to a larger venue due to expected high attendance, as community interest and concerns about the development remain strong. Even if the proposal moves forward, city planning staff have indicated that an environmental study would still be required before any construction could begin.

Tuesday: 🌡️ 53 | 70 💨 

Wednesday: 🌡️ 49 | 70 ☀️

Thursday: 🌡️ 36 | 65 💨 

Recap:

🏀 Men’s Basketball (14-10)
Saturday 2/14 at HOME vs Missouri Western State University | L 66-65
Monday 2/16 at Pittsburg State University | W 83-75

🏀 Women’s Basketball (17-7)
Saturday 2/14 at HOME vs Missouri Western State University | L 85-75

⚾️ Baseball (4-5) @ Lion Classic Tournament in Joplin, MO
Friday 2/13 vs McKendree University | W 7-2
Friday 2/14 vs University of Indianapolis | L 5-3
Sunday 2/15 vs McKendree University | W 8-2
Monday 2/16 vs Minnesota State University, Mankato | L 9-8

🥎 Softball (15-1) @ D2 Cherokee Nation Festival in Tahlequah, OK
Friday 2/13 vs Southwestern Oklahoma State University | W 10-3
Saturday 2/14 vs University of Arkansas at Monticello | W 12-3
Saturday 2/14 vs Southern Arkansas University | W 8-0
Sunday 2/15 vs Southeastern Oklahoma State University | W 6-5
Sunday 2/15 vs Harding University | W 10-9

👟Men’s & Women’s Track & Field 
Friday 2/13 & Saturday 2/14 at Pitt State University | Friday Recap | Saturday Recap

Upcoming:

🏀 Men’s Basketball (14-10)
Thursday 2/19 at HOME vs Fort Hays State University | 7:30 PM
Saturday 2/21 at HOME vs University of Nebraska at Kearney | 3:30 PM

🏀 Women’s Basketball (17-7)
Thursday 2/19 at HOME vs Fort Hays State University | 5:30 PM
Saturday 2/21 at HOME vs University of Nebraska at Kearney | 1:30 PM

We’d love to hear your feedback! Reply to this newsletter or take the poll to let us know how we’re doing!

Want to sponsor JOMO Jive? Send your inquiry to matt@jomojive.com

THANKS!

Thank you for reading JOMO Jive today. See you again Friday!

In partnership with

Want to sponsor your business in JOMO Jive? Send your inquiry to matt@jomojive.com

Good Morning, Joplin. Why on Earth does no coffee shop in Joplin offer a coffee flight? The people would love it! I’m serious. First coffee shop to offer a flight gets a story in JOMO Jive. If you own or work for a coffee shop, hit us up and we’ll help you promote it.

In today’s JOMO Jive:

• Joplin Carnegie Library

• Governor Mike Kehoe stops by

• Joplin Empire Market - Paris Week

Let’s get to it.

— Matt Thompson

P.S. If you find something useful in today’s Jive, please share it with someone who fights their inner demons when tempted to order an iced coffee when they know they should just drink water…

🎙️ 10th Annual Comedy for Camp & S’MORE

Join Soroptimist International of Joplin for the 10th Annual Comedy for Camp & S’MORE, presented by Joplin Plaza Apartments, on Friday, February 20, beginning at 6:30 PM at the Cornell Complex in Downtown Joplin. This fun, casual event features clean comedy and a night of laughter for a great cause. The show includes opening comedian Jody Fuller and headliner Kevin Farley, with live music by Chris Bassett during the social hour. Proceeds support Camp Soroptimist, a week-long summer camp for area foster children, as well as Soroptimist programs that empower women and girls through education and career support.

SPONSORED BY WINDOWS & MORE

🏡 Upgrade Your Home with Windows & More

If you’ve been thinking about new windows, doors, or siding, Windows & More is a trusted local team that makes the process simple from start to finish! With over 50 years of combined local experience, owners Zak Porath and Chris Green focus on quality products, clear communication, and results that truly improve your home’s look and efficiency. From energy-efficient replacement windows and seamless gutters to patio covers, siding, and water management solutions, they do more than the name suggests!

Get a free estimate today at (417) 208-8577 or visit windowsandmorellc.com

🏛️ Ribbon Cutting Marks One Year of New Ownership at Joplin Carnegie Library

Friday, February 13 | 11:00 AM | Joplin Carnegie Library (830 S Wall Ave.)

Instagram post

A ribbon-cutting ceremony will celebrate one year of new ownership and ongoing restoration efforts at the historic Joplin Carnegie Library in downtown Joplin. Originally built in 1902 and used as the city’s public library until the early 1980s, the building sat vacant for nearly two decades and faced vandalism, break-ins, and arson before being purchased in February 2025 by owner Laurie M. Anderson for rehabilitation. The event marks an important milestone in preserving one of Joplin’s most recognizable historic landmarks, with ongoing updates shared through the project’s social media channels. Follow @savethelibrary_carnegie_joplin on Instagram for regular updates!

🏫 Governor Mike Kehoe Visits Joplin to Spotlight Education Partnerships

Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe was in Joplin recently for a visit to Missouri Southern State University, where he highlighted the impact of the Compass Academy Network, a program that provides free summer enrichment for rural middle school students and paid internships for future educators. Kehoe emphasized how partnerships like this can expand opportunities for local students, strengthen the education pipeline, and help communities like Joplin invest in their future workforce. The visit reinforced MSSU’s role as a regional hub for education and community collaboration, with programs that aim to build confidence, skills, and long-term success for area youth.

🐶 Think Your Dog Is Cuter Than Rusty?

Mutt Madness is back—and registration is still open, but the bracket is filling fast. We’re only accepting 64 dogs total, with one entry per person, and it’s first come, first served. Last year’s champion, Rusty, set the bar pretty high (you’ll see his winning smile above 👀), but we’re ready to see if another pup can take the crown. Think your dog has what it takes? It’s free to enter, so don’t overthink it—click the button below and sign up before all the spots are gone.

🐾 Mutt Madness Spotlight: A Dog’s Dream

As Mutt Madness celebrates the pups of Joplin and beyond, it’s a perfect time to highlight the work of A Dog's Dream, a local nonprofit focused on giving retired breeding dogs the loving future they deserve. Here’s how they describe their mission, in their own words:

You can learn more about their work at adogsdream.org, or follow along on Facebook and Instagram.

🗼 Paris Week Returns to Empire Market

10:00 AM–2:00 PM | Joplin Empire Market

The Joplin Empire Market is bringing a taste of Paris back to downtown with its annual Paris Week celebration, a free, themed market day filled with French-inspired fun. Hosted in partnership with the Downtown Joplin Alliance, the event features macarons, baguettes, Parisian sandwiches, sweet and savory crepes from La Crêperie de Marché, themed cocktails and coffee, a Paris-style photo booth, and plenty of festive vendor offerings. It’s a playful way to brighten a winter weekend—no passport required.

🎼 An American Love Song with Glenda Austin

Saturday, February 14 | 4:00 PM | Beshore Performance Hall, Cornell Complex
🎟️ Tickets: $15–$20 | 212 W 7th St, Joplin

Celebrate Valentine’s Day and America’s 250th with one unforgettable afternoon of heart and heritage. Pianist and composer Glenda Austin leads this once-in-a-lifetime musical tribute, blending spirituals, folk tunes, ragtime, New Orleans jazz, patriotic favorites—and of course, timeless love songs.

It’s a warm, feel-good concert that celebrates the many sounds of America with a romantic twist. Whether you love classic hymns or nostalgic ballads, this one’s for you. Wear your red, white, and Valentine’s red! Learn more and buy tickets here.

🏛️ City Offices Close for Presidents’ Day, Council Meeting Rescheduled

The City of Joplin will close City Hall and other city services (including the Recycling Center, Sunshine Lamp Trolley, and MAPS system) on Monday, February 16, in observance of Presidents’ Day, with operations reopening on Tuesday, February 17. As a result, the Joplin City Council’s regular third-Monday meeting will move to Tuesday, February 17 at 6:00 PM, held in Corley Auditorium at Missouri Southern State University. The meeting will be broadcast live on KGCS-TV and live-streamed on the City’s YouTube channel, with a rebroadcast at 6:00 PM on Wednesday, February 18, and a recording posted to the City website shortly after.

Residential trash and curbside recycling will run as normal.

Friday: 🌡️ 38 | 67 🌧️ 65%

Saturday: 🌡️ 51 | 61 🌧️ 100%

Sunday: 🌡️ 43 | 60 ⛅️

Recap:

🏀 Men’s Basketball (13-9)
Thursday 2/12 at HOME vs Northwest Missouri State University | L 81-74

🏀 Women’s Basketball (17-6)
Thursday 2/12 at HOME vs Northwest Missouri State University | L 65-60

Upcoming:

🏀 Men’s Basketball (13-9)
Saturday 2/14 at HOME vs Missouri Western State University | 3:30 PM
Monday 2/16 at Pittsburg State University | 6:00 PM

🏀 Women’s Basketball (17-6)
Saturday 2/14 at HOME vs Missouri Western State University | 1:30 PM

⚾️ Baseball (2-3) @ Lion Classic Tournament in Joplin, MO
Friday 2/13 vs McKendree University | 12:00 PM
Friday 2/14 vs University of Indianapolis | 12:00 PM
Sunday 2/15 vs McKendree University | 3:00 PM
Monday 2/16 vs Minnesota State University, Mankato | 12:00 PM

🥎 Softball (10-1) @ D2 Cherokee Nation Festival in Tahlequah, OK
Friday 2/13 vs Southwestern Oklahoma State University | 4:00 PM
Saturday 2/14 vs University of Arkansas at Monticello | 11:00 AM
Saturday 2/14 vs Southern Arkansas University | 1:30 PM
Sunday 2/15 vs Southeastern Oklahoma State University | 11:00 AM
Sunday 2/15 vs Harding University | 1:30 PM

👟Men’s & Women’s Track & Field 
Friday 2/13 & Saturday 2/14 at Pittsburg State University

🎭 Mardi Gras Party at Guitars: Celebrate Valentine’s weekend with Bourbon Street vibes at Guitars Rock N’ Country, featuring a live DJ, Mardi Gras cocktails, beads, masks, and a packed dance floor all night. Enjoy 2-for-1 drinks from 7–8 PM and no cover until 8 PM as the party kicks off at 7 PM.

🧵 NCC’s 3rd Annual Quilt Show: Stop by Neosho Christian Church to admire a stunning display of handmade and heirloom quilts, each with a story stitched into every piece. Enjoy refreshments, prize drawings, and a cozy, uplifting atmosphere—perfect for a Galentine outing or a relaxed afternoon with loved ones.

🐎 Live Free Weekend: Experience a powerful live horse training demonstration with Todd Pierce of Riding High Ministries as he works with a wild horse in real time, illustrating themes of trust, healing, and surrender through storytelling and faith. With limited seating due to a live horse pen setup, this free event also features full kids programming and a petting zoo-style experience for younger attendees.

💍 4-States Wedding Expo: Plan your big day at the region’s largest wedding showcase on Sunday, February 15 from 11:00 AM–2:00 PM at the Joplin Expo, featuring 50+ vendors, cake tastings, styled displays, and exclusive deals. Tickets are $7 in advance or $10 at the door, and pre-registered guests are entered to win a $1,000 gift certificate to Gracie’s Bridal.

Live Music Lowdown

Friday

Vagabond Grove
WH Farm Cafe Mining Co | 6:00 PM

Barak Hill
Beard Engine Brewing Co | 6:30 PM

Quinton Scott
Osage Spring | 8:00 PM

BJ Huffman
Kansas Crossing Casino | 8:00 PM

Stonehorse
Downstream Casino | 8:30 PM

Big Smitty
Indigo Sky Casino | 9:00 PM

Saturday

Johnny Dale Roberts Band
HoneyPop’s Bar & Grill | 7:00 PM

Lavender Jonz
Osage Spring | 8:00 PM

Dueling Pianos
Kansas Crossing Casino | 8:00 PM

Phil McGarrah & Runnin’ on Empty
Downstream Casino | 8:30 PM

Outlaws Reloaded
Buffalo Run Casino | 8:30 PM

Damsel
Indigo Sky Casino | 9:00 PM

We’d love to hear your feedback! Reply to this newsletter or take the poll to let us know how we’re doing!

In partnership with

Want to sponsor your business in JOMO Jive? Send your inquiry to matt@jomojive.com

Good Morning, Joplin. Ever heard of Mattress Mack in Texas? Every year he bets big on the Super Bowl and runs a promotion in his furniture store. This year’s promotion: buy a $4k+ mattress and get it for free if the Patriots win. Mack bet $2 million on the Patriots. You might think Mack’s not a happy camper since the Patriots lost.

Think again. His promotions sell a lot of mattresses (which have a great markup). And since the Pats lost, no refunds. Plus, there’s all sorts of earned media coverage (like this) and the internet loves him for it.

In today’s JOMO Jive:

• Poetry Out Loud Regionals

• Can you paint a mural?

• More Valentine’s and Galentine’s events

Let’s get to it.

— Matt Thompson

P.S. If you find something useful in today’s Jive, please share it with someone who didn’t know the bushes in the halftime show were actually people.

💗 La Boussole is Sharing the Love with Our February Spa Specials!

February is the perfect time to focus on self-love, confidence, and feeling your best. Whether you’re treating yourself, coming in with your person, or planning a visit with your bestie, our “Sharing the Love” February Specials are designed to enhance your natural beauty, boost radiance, and help you feel strong—inside and out.

🎤 Poetry Out Loud Regionals Come to Joplin

Tuesday, February 10 | 2:00 PM | Harry M. Cornell Arts & Entertainment Complex

Connect2Culture will host the Southwest Missouri Regional Poetry Out Loud Competition on February 10, welcoming high school students from Stockton, Central, and Pleasant Hope for an afternoon of powerful poetry and performance. Poetry Out Loud is a nationwide recitation competition that challenges students to memorize and perform poems while building confidence, public speaking skills, and an appreciation for literary history and contemporary voices. The free, public event takes place in C2C’s home theater at the Harry M. Cornell Arts & Entertainment Complex, with students performing before a panel of judges as they compete for advancement to the next level. Community members are encouraged to attend and cheer on these young performers.

🐶 Mutt Madness Is Filling Up — Enter Your Pup Now!

Think you’ve got the cutest dog in Joplin? Prove it. Mutt Madness registration is still open, but there are only 64 total spots, and they’re going fast. Entry is free, limited to one dog per person, and it’s first come, first served. Once the bracket is full, it’s game on with head-to-head matchups decided by reader votes. If your pup deserves local glory (and bragging rights), now’s the time to sign them up. 🐾

🎨 Vision Carthage Calls for Local Artist for New Mural

Vision Carthage is inviting local artists to submit designs for a new large-scale mural near the future farmers market at the Kolpin Family Pavilion, located at the corner of East 2nd Street and Howard Street just off the Carthage Square. The nearly 700-square-foot wall will feature a bold, colorful floral design incorporating the phrase “Carthage in Bloom,” symbolizing growth and long-term positivity in the community. Artists are asked to submit both a concept design and a cost estimate, with the goal of transforming the space into a vibrant landmark. The application deadline is February 21, and full submission details are available through Vision Carthage. Click here for information about applying.

🎸 Seth Lee Jones Makes His Coda Debut (Full Band)

Monday, February 23 | Doors 6:30 PM, Show 7:00 PM | Coda Concert House

Blues fans won’t want to miss Seth Lee Jones as he makes his Coda Concert House debut with a full band, bringing raw, high-energy slide guitar and deep blues tradition to Joplin. Known for trading licks with Tedeschi Trucks and earning features in Guitar World, Jones leads a trio celebrated for their electrifying live shows and bold takes on classic blues standards, many of which appear on his debut album Flathead. Seats are available for a $25 suggested donation, with all proceeds going directly to the artists. Reservations can be made by emailing info@codaconcerthouse.com.

❤️ More Valentine’s & Galentine’s Events

Last Friday, we rounded up some great Valentine’s and Galentine’s events—and the list keeps growing. We’ve curated even more ways to celebrate this weekend, from date nights and friend get-togethers to creative workshops and special experiences. Take a look and sign up early, because several of these events have limited tickets and spots available.

Thursday

🌿 Plant-Based Valentine’s Dinner at Vino Noir: An elevated, plant-based dining experience designed for a cozy and intimate Valentine’s celebration. Enjoy thoughtfully crafted vegan dishes in a relaxed wine bar atmosphere—perfect for date night, friends, or anyone curious about flavorful plant-based cuisine.

Friday

🧟‍♂️ Memorial Auditorium Murder Mystery Dinner - ZombieLove!: Dig into a hilarious, zombie-themed whodunit at Memorial Auditorium and Convention Center featuring live performances, audience participation, and a full buffet dinner. Come as a zombie or a normie and enjoy comedy, drama, and a love story—with two acts, a cash bar, and plenty of chances to solve the mystery before the night ends.

😍 2nd Annual Galentine’s Day Party at Christine’s Vineyard: A festive night celebrating friendship with themed drinks, photo ops, and dancing to DJ Oso. Doors open early for food, cocktails, and mingling before the dance floor heats up for a high-energy Galentine’s celebration.

💖 Valentine’s Eve at Keltoi Winery: Celebrate early with a laid-back afternoon and evening of wine, food, and live music at Keltoi. Enjoy specialty Valentine cocktails, grab dinner from Two Brothers, browse the Charm Bar, and settle in for live music by Wyatt Stout—perfect for a relaxed date or girls’ night out before the big day.

💟 Galentine’s Day at Hip Hip Array + Chloe Collective: Grab the girls and celebrate girlhood at this final pop-up vendor market before Jordan bids farewell. Expect a fun, feel-good evening of shopping, connection, and Galentine’s vibes you won’t want to miss.

💃 Galentine’s Gala at The Boutique Marketplace Too: An elegant-but-fun after-hours girls’ night featuring exclusive shopping, food, drinks, and a build-your-own bouquet experience. Dress in pink, red, or white and enjoy a festive evening designed for friendship, fun, and treating yourself.

Friday & Saturday

🍫 Valentine Pop-Up Bar & Dessert Charcuterie: Sip, snack, and soak up the romance at artCentral’s Valentine Pop-Up Bar, featuring specialty Valentine cocktails, beer, and a decadent dessert charcuterie spread. Enjoy candlelit vibes, romantic music, and a sweet way to support artCentral’s summer youth programs. Tickets are $35 per person, with two sessions each night and private rooms available.

Saturday

💘 Love Is Blind: A Couples Wine & Canvas Challenge: A playful Valentine’s experience at Christine’s Vineyard featuring a guided tasting, shared bites, and a blindfolded canvas challenge for couples. Designed for laughter and connection, this interactive evening offers a fun twist on date night with creativity at the center.

🏗️ 🗳️ Joplin Data Center Debate Continues as Community Group Pushes Next Steps

Opposition to a proposed data center west of Joplin is continuing to take shape, with the Joplin Sustainable Technology Alliance (JSTA) outlining multiple paths forward related to the annexation and rezoning of land at Wildwood Ranch. Below is a two-part look at where things stand and what’s coming next.

Part 1: Possible Petition After Feb. 17 Vote

The JSTA says it may begin collecting signatures after the February 17 City Council meeting if annexation and rezoning are approved. Any petition effort would focus on putting the issue before voters and could also include a request for a temporary pause and further study.
Full article here.

Part 2: Group Keeps Organizing

Although a previous petition effort fell short, the group says it plans to keep organizing and gathering community input. Supporters recently met at the Joplin Public Library and say more outreach is planned as the process continues. Community members who want more information can email citizensagainst.wildwood@gmail.com.
Full article here.

Tuesday: 🌡️ 41 | 65 ☁️ 

Wednesday: 🌡️ 33 | 56 ⛅️ 

Thursday: 🌡️ 38 | 61 ☁️ 

Recap:

🏀 Men’s Basketball (13-8)
Saturday 2/7 at Emporia State University | W 93-73

🏀 Women’s Basketball (17-5)
Saturday 2/7 at Emporia State University | W 74-69

⚾️ Baseball (2-3) @ HSU Invitational in Arkadelphia, AR
Friday 2/6 vs Henderson State University | L 7-4
Saturday 2/7 vs Harding University | W 11-1
Sunday 2/8 vs Ouachita Baptist University | L 84, L 6-3

🥎 Softball (10-1) @ Alvy Early Memorial Classic in Bentonville, AR
Friday, 2/6 vs Southeastern Oklahoma State University | W 10-3
Friday 2/6 vs Drury University | L 2-1
Saturday 2/7 vs Arkansas Tech University | W 7-1
Saturday 2/7 vs Southwest Baptist University | W 8-6
Sunday 2/8 vs Texas Woman’s University | W 8-5
Sunday 2/8 vs William Jewell College | W 4-0

👟Men’s & Women’s Track & Field 
Friday 2/6 & Saturday 2/7 at Missouri Southern Open | Results

Upcoming:

🏀 Men’s Basketball (13-8)
Thursday 2/12 at HOME vs Northwest Missouri State University | 7:30 PM
Saturday 2/14 at HOME vs Missouri Western State University | 3:30 PM
Monday 2/16 at Pittsburg State University | 6:00 PM

🏀 Women’s Basketball (17-5)
Thursday 2/12 at HOME vs Northwest Missouri State University | 5:30 PM
Saturday 2/14 at HOME vs Missouri Western State University | 1:30 PM

⚾️ Baseball (2-3) @ Lion Classic Tournament in Joplin, MO
Friday 2/13 vs McKendree University | 12:00 PM
Friday 2/14 vs University of Indianapolis | 12:00 PM
Sunday 2/15 vs McKendree University | 3:00 PM
Monday 2/16 vs Minnesota State University, Mankato | 12:00 PM

 🥎 Softball (10-1) @ D2 Cherokee Nation Festival in Tahlequah, OK
Friday 2/13 vs Southwestern Oklahoma State University | 4:00 PM
Saturday 2/14 vs University of Arkansas at Monticello | 11:00 AM
Saturday 2/14 vs Southern Arkansas University | 1:30 PM
Sunday 2/15 vs Southeastern Oklahoma State University | 11:00 AM
Sunday 2/15 vs Harding University | 1:30 PM

👟Men’s & Women’s Track & Field 
Friday 2/13 & Saturday 2/14 at Pittsburg State University

Wednesday

💘 Rom Com Trivia at B&B Theatres: Grab your fellow hopeless romantics and test your knowledge of iconic rom-com moments, quotes, and characters in this Valentine’s-themed trivia night. Free to play, all ages welcome, with prizes on the line and plenty of laughs along the way.

Thursday

🎷 Javon Jackson Quartet: Hear acclaimed saxophonist Javon Jackson bring soulful, straight-ahead jazz to the Cornell Series with a dynamic quartet performance at the Cornell Complex. The show blends rich tradition with modern energy in an intimate concert setting at Beshore Performance Hall.

Thursday, Friday, & Saturday

📖 The Diary of Anne Frank: Dream Theatre Company presents this moving stage adaptation on February 12–14 at 7:30 PM at 124 S Main St in Joplin. The production brings Anne Frank’s words to life, offering a powerful reflection on courage, humanity, and hope during the Holocaust through one young girl’s unforgettable story.

Saturday

💞 Valentine’s Day in the Gallery: A creative, after-hours gallery experience inviting couples or friends to celebrate love through collaborative art-making. Guided by local artists in a relaxed setting with drinks and charcuterie, this hands-on evening offers a meaningful alternative to the traditional dinner date.

💖 Spinning Hearts Fluid Art with Debbie: A dynamic, hands-on art class where participants use acrylic pours and a spinner to create bold, heart-inspired designs. Guided by Debbie Southard, this all-ages workshop encourages playful experimentation with color, movement, and fluid art techniques.

We’d love to hear your feedback! Reply to this newsletter or take the poll to let us know how we’re doing!

In partnership with

Want to sponsor your business in JOMO Jive? Send your inquiry to matt@jomojive.com

Good Morning, Joplin. Super Bowl Sunday is almost here, which means wings will be consumed, couches will be claimed, and alarms on Monday morning will be… aggressively snoozed. Every year, millions of Americans take the day after the Super Bowl off—some planned, some “planned,” and some who simply disappear into the fog of snacks and late-night celebrations. It’s become so predictable that the Monday after the Super Bowl has earned nicknames like “Super Sick Monday,” and there’s even a growing movement arguing it should be an official holiday.

In today’s JOMO Jive:

• Joplin Home Expo

• Mutt Madness Registration

• Valentine’s Day Events

Let’s get to it.

— Matt Thompson

P.S. If you find something useful in today’s Jive, please share it with someone who hosts a Super Bowl party every year.

POLL OF THE DAY

🔨 Get Inspired at the Joplin Home Show This Weekend!

Feb. 7–8 | Saturday 9 AM–6 PM & Sunday 11 AM–5 PM | – 101 N Rangeline Rd

Whether you’re planning big renovations or dreaming up small upgrades, the Joplin Home Show has ideas and experts under one roof! This weekend, explore more than 40,000 sq ft of home improvement products, services, and seasonal inspiration — and admission is FREE for the public.

👷 What You’ll Find:
• Dozens of home builders, contractors, and design pros ready to answer questions on the spot
• Outdoor living concepts, smart home tech, remodeling solutions, and decor inspiration
• Complimentary giveaways and merchandise while supplies last

Perfect for homeowners, renters, or anyone ready to refresh their space — stop by, gather ideas, and kick off your spring projects with expert insight and local resources.

SPONSORED BY ARVEST BANK

Dreaming of your next home project but not sure where to start? Arvest Bank is hosting a live expert panel at the Home Show, covering everything from buying to building to renovating so you can get real answers before making big decisions.

Learn from Arvest Mortgage Loan Officer Kristen Sweet*, TR Smith Construction Builder Julie Smith, and Cedar & Stone Interior Designer Brie Stewart. 

The seminar and Joplin Expo Home Show are free to attend. 

*Kristen Sweet - NMLS #564726. Loans subject to credit approval.

🐾 Mutt Madness Entries Are OFFICIALLY Open

First come, first in — only 64 dogs make the bracket

It’s go time. Mutt Madness 2026 is officially open for entries, and the race to fill the bracket starts right now.

We’re building a 64-dog, single-elimination bracket to crown Joplin’s Cutest Dog, and once those 64 spots are filled, entries close. No exceptions.

Here’s what you need to know before you enter:

• 🐶 Only 64 spots available

• ⏱️ First come, first in

• 🚫 One entry per person

• 💰 Free to enter

• 📸 Just submit your dog’s photo and info

Once voting begins in March, readers will vote round by round in each edition of JOMO Jive until one very good dog takes home the title.

👉 Think your dog has what it takes? Enter now before the bracket fills up!

Fair warning: last year’s spots went fast — don’t wait and assume you’ll sneak in later.

Let the madness begin. 🐕

💘 Valentine’s Nail Trim Fundraiser

Saturday, February 7 | 11:00 AM–1:00 PM | Joplin Humane Society

If you’re already getting your pup ready for Mutt Madness, this is a perfect pre-bracket stop. The Valentine’s Nail Trim Fundraiser offers quick, safe nail trims for your furry Valentine while supporting animals at the Joplin Humane Society. For a $10 donation per pet, dogs (on standard leashes) and cats (in secure carriers) can get tidied up—dog nails will even be ground at no extra charge if they tolerate it. No appointment needed, just swing by, spread the love, and leave with smoother paws.

😍 Valentine’s & Galentine’s Events

Valentine’s and Galentine’s season is officially here, and whether you’re planning a date night, a friends’ night out, or something just for yourself, there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate.

🍽️ Surf & Turf Prix Fixe Dinner at OCH Nexus: A romantic and celebratory Valentine’s-season dining experience featuring a luxurious five-course prix fixe menu with surf & turf or vegetarian options. Enjoy live jazz, curated wine pairings, and an elegant evening designed for couples, friends, or a memorable night of self-love.

🍷 Bottled with Love: A Wine Bottle Workshop at Christine’s Vineyard: A relaxed, guided afternoon where guests transform an empty wine bottle into a charming piece of home décor. Perfect for a girls’ outing, date day, or creative escape in a cozy vineyard setting.

💖 5th Annual Galentine’s Day Sip & Shop: A feel-good ladies’ night at the Roxy Event Center featuring local boutiques, wine tasting, and delicious bites. Shop, sip, and celebrate with friends while supporting Freeman Health System’s Wig and Scarf Program.

👧 Girls Night Out at Briarbrook Country Club: A one-stop shopping and social night featuring a lineup of local vendors, plus drinks and dinner at Joe’s 19th Hole. Browse, sip, snap photos at the free photo booth, and enjoy a relaxed evening out with friends in Carl Junction.

💘 Downtown Webb City Cupids & Cocktails: A festive downtown shopping event featuring exclusive deals, limited-time specials, and complimentary cocktails at participating Webb City merchants. Grab friends, browse unique local shops, and enjoy a fun celebration of friendship, gifts, and Valentine vibes.

💃 Sweetheart Swing at Nexus: A Valentine’s Day celebration filled with live jazz, swing dancing, and community connection at OCH Nexus. Enjoy a beginner-friendly dance lesson, an open dance floor, and live music by Jump Company in a festive, adults-only atmosphere.

🚴‍♂️ Joplin Selected to Host International UCI Pump Track Qualifier

Joplin is officially on the global cycling map after MOmentum Bike Park was selected as a host site for a 2026 Velosolutions/UCI Pump Track Qualifier on August 15-16, 2026, making it one of just four U.S. communities chosen and one of 23 locations worldwide. The event will bring head-to-head, high-speed pump track racing to Joplin during the park’s inaugural season, with riders competing for a chance to qualify for the UCI Pump Track World Championships in Beijing this October. Pump track racing challenges athletes to generate speed without pedaling as they navigate rollers, berms, and jumps in knockout rounds. Local leaders say the event is a major win for Joplin’s outdoor recreation scene and an opportunity to introduce the city to cycling communities around the world, with planning already underway and more details to come.

🎷 Javon Jackson Quartet (Cornell Series)

Thursday, Feb. 12 | 7:00 PM | Beshore Performance Hall at the Cornell Complex

The Javon Jackson Quartet brings world-class jazz to Joplin as part of the Cornell Series, featuring a master saxophonist whose career spans straight-ahead jazz, soul, funk, and fearless musical exploration. A former member of Art Blakey’s Jazz Messengers, Jackson has recorded for Blue Note and Palmetto, collaborated with legends like Elvin Jones and Christian McBride, and even composed a full live score for Hitchcock’s The Lodger. Today, he also serves as a leading jazz educator and director at the University of Hartford’s Hartt School. Expect a dynamic, soulful evening of jazz artistry in an intimate concert setting. Buy tickets here.

🚋 Sunshine Lamp Trolley Offers Free Rides Today

Friday, February 6 | 6:00 AM–6:00 PM | Joplin

To mark one full year since the Sunshine Lamp Trolley’s relaunch, the City of Joplin is offering free trolley rides all day on Friday, February 6. Riders can hop on from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM with no fare required, making it a perfect chance for new residents—or anyone who hasn’t ridden since service returned—to give it a try. Since relaunching in February 2025, the trolley has served more than 32,000 riders, and city officials hope the free-ride day encourages even more people to take advantage of the service. Route information is available on the City of Joplin’s website.

🏛️ Public Meeting Set to Discuss Joplin Stormwater Permit Renewal

Wednesday, March 11 | 4:00–6:00 PM | Council Chambers at City Hall

The City of Joplin will host a public information meeting on March 11 to discuss the renewal of its Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) permit, which authorizes how the City manages and discharges stormwater and is set to expire in September 2026. The meeting will give residents an overview of the proposed Stormwater Management Program and how it meets state and federal requirements, while also opening the door for questions and public input. A 30-day public comment period is now open, and residents can review the current plan and draft permit online or in person at City Hall. The meeting will be held in the Joplin City Hall Council Chambers, and community members are encouraged to attend and participate.

Friday: 🌡️ 36 | 60 ☀️

Saturday: 🌡️ 31 | 57 ☀️

Sunday: 🌡️ 41 | 66 ☀️ 

🏈 MSSU Football Announces 2026 Signing Class

Missouri Southern football officially announced its 2026 recruiting class on National Signing Day, with head coach Atiba Bradley confirming the addition of 26 new Lions. The class features a balanced mix of 14 high school recruits and 12 transfers, giving the program both immediate contributors and longer-term developmental players. Bradley called signing day a major milestone for the student-athletes and a key first step in building momentum toward the 2026 season, noting that while recruiting is year-round, this group provides a strong foundation as the Lions prepare for the next campaign. Check out the new Lions.

Recap:

🏀 Men’s Basketball (12-8)
Thursday 2/5 at Newman University | W 93-75

🏀 Women’s Basketball (16-5)
Thursday 2/5 at Newman University | W 72-51

Upcoming:

🏀 Men’s Basketball (12-8)
Saturday 2/7 at Emporia State University | 3:30 PM

🏀 Women’s Basketball (16-5)
Saturday 2/7 at Emporia State University | 1:30 PM

⚾️ Baseball (1-0) @ HSU Invitational in Arkadelphia, AR
Friday 2/6 vs Henderson State University | 5:00 PM
Saturday 2/7 vs Harding University | 1:30 PM
Sunday 2/8 vs Ouachita Baptist University | DH 12:00 PM, 1:30 PM

🥎 Softball (5-0) @ Lone Star Classic in Mansfield, TX
Friday, 2/6 vs Southeastern Oklahoma State University | 11:00 AM
Friday 2/6 vs Drury University | 1:30 PM
Saturday 2/7 vs Arkansas Tech University | 11:30 AM
Saturday 2/7 vs Southwest Baptist University | 2:00 PM
Sunday 2/8 vs Texas Woman’s University | 11:00 AM
Sunday 2/8 vs William Jewell College | 1:30 PM

👟Men’s & Women’s Track & Field 
Friday 2/6 & Saturday 2/7 at Missouri Southern Open

Friday

✨ Josh Farley Magic Across America Tour: An award-winning illusion show blending fast-paced magic, interactive comedy, and world-class sleight of hand as part of a 50-state tour. VIP tickets include a pre-show close-up magic experience and meet-and-greet, with the full show delivering a night of mind-blowing entertainment.

🍷 February First Friday WineShare: A relaxed evening of shared wine, conversation, and community at Royale Cinema Lounge, complete with free popcorn for attendees. Guests are invited to bring a bottle to share, enjoy the full bar, and stick around for a special film screening curated by Downtown Joplin Alliance.

☕ Morning Brew at Sparklight: A casual morning networking event hosted by the Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce, offering coffee and connections before the workday begins. Meet fellow business professionals, grow your network, and learn more about the featured host location.

💃 February First Friday Swing Night: A lively evening starting with a swing dance lesson followed by live jazz and open dancing at The Main Event. Learn new moves, enjoy craft cocktails, and dance the night away—tickets are limited to the first 100 guests.

Saturday

🦸 ArtCon 2026: Neosho’s pop culture convention celebrating comics, sci-fi, anime, esports, cosplay, and gaming with special guests, panels, and hands-on activities. Enjoy a full day of vendors, artist alley, contests, tournaments, and meet-and-greets—all while supporting the Neosho Arts Council.

🎼 Southern Symphony Orchestra – Contrasts: The Southern Symphony Orchestra’s first concert of 2026 invites audiences to explore musical contrasts from slow and fast to sacred and profane. This free, public performance takes place at Taylor Auditorium and offers an engaging evening of orchestral music for the community.

🕯️ A Walk to Remember: A heartfelt indoor luminaria walk fundraiser hosted by the Baxter Springs Leo’s Club to honor loved ones and support the Ronald McDonald House. Guests create a glowing lantern, place it along a softly lit path, and walk at their own pace in a peaceful, reflective community experience.

👠 Heel Yourself: A Beginner Heels Dance Workshop: A confidence-building dance workshop focused on learning the fundamentals of walking and moving in heels while developing flow, control, and self-expression. This two-hour beginner-friendly class guides participants through technique and a simple routine in an empowering, supportive environment.

🌱 Seed Paper Valentines with Ciera: An eco-friendly Valentine’s workshop where participants create plantable cards from recycled paper that grow into flowers. This hands-on class blends creativity and sustainability, with guided instruction to make seed paper designs and matching decorated envelopes.

❤️ Linocut Valentine’s with Jade: A hands-on Valentine’s printmaking workshop for ages 16+ exploring linocut and block-printing techniques. Participants will design, carve, and print their own bold Valentine-inspired artwork with guided instruction and all materials provided.

Monday

🀄 Mahjong at Joplin Public Library: A welcoming mahjong meet-up hosted by Friends of the Library, open to beginners and experienced players alike. Learn the game with guided instruction or jump into open play and enjoy a relaxed afternoon of tiles and community.

LIVE MUSIC LOWDOWN

Friday

Will Wadkins
Wildfire Pizza | 6:00 PM

Dillon Leggett
HoneyPop’s Bar & Grill | 6:00 PM

Zane Grimes
Red Ball Bar & Grill | 7:00 PM

Framing the Red
66 Sports Bar & Restaurant | 8:00 PM

The Blue Underground
Grand Lake Casino | 8:00 PM

Dustin Treiber
Stables Casino | 8:00 PM

Saturday

Andrew Pommert
Joplin Empire Market | 10:00 AM

Kol Dorris
Joplin Empire Market | 12:00 PM

Jon Dooly
HoneyPop’s Bar & Grill | 5:00 PM

Chris Hewitt
Keltoi Winery | 6:00 PM

Mark Aldred
Buffalo Run Casino | 8:00 PM

Fool House
Kansas Crossing Casino | 8:00 PM

Bobby DeGonia
Downstream Casino | 8:30 PM

We’d love to hear your feedback! Reply to this newsletter or take the poll to let us know how we’re doing!