☕️ Ever Heard of the Joplin Jailbirds?

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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

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