Friday, October 10, 2025

In partnership with

Want to sponsor your business in JOMO Jive? Send your inquiry to [email protected]

Good Morning, Joplin. The Knot estimates that Taylor Swift getting engaged will create $2.2 billion in new wedding spending over the next 2 years—something it’s calling the Swiftification of Weddings. Don’t believe it? Searches for both gardens and engagement photographers surged 71% the week after Taylor and Travis announced their engagement.

In today’s JOMO Jive:

• Findings in the audit of City of Joplin

• Maple Leaf Festival in Carthage

Let’s get to it.

— Matt Thompson

P.S. If you find something useful in today’s Jive, please share it with someone who buys their gold at Sam’s Club.

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

🕵️‍♂️ State Audit Gives Joplin a “Fair” Rating

Missouri State Auditor Scott Fitzpatrick just released the latest audit of the City of Joplin, and the verdict is in: “Fair.” The report says City Hall needs to tighten up transparency and oversight — especially after finding that 80% of all ordinances were passed as “emergencies,” which speeds up approval but skips public comment.

Auditors also flagged financial control issues and budget oversights, including $2.7 million in unpaid customer balances, $12.8 million in unbudgeted encumbrances, and late budget amendments that weren’t clearly shared with the public. Other findings hit on vehicle stipends, leave tracking, and weak oversight of the Joplin Sports Authority and Convention & Visitors Bureau.

The audit’s takeaway? Joplin’s government is functioning but needs stronger accountability, clearer communication, and more transparency to earn back the public’s trust — and maybe a better grade next time around.

Read the full report here.

🍁 Maple Leaf Festival Kicks Off This Weekend

October 10–19 | Historic Downtown Carthage

The wait is over—Carthage’s 59th Annual Maple Leaf Festival officially begins tomorrow, and the city is ready to transform into a scene straight out of a storybook. This year’s theme, “A City of Pure Imagination,” brings a touch of whimsy and wonder to one of Southwest Missouri’s most beloved fall traditions.

The festival opens with the Maple Leaf Rodeo Friday night, followed by a packed lineup of events all week long—live entertainment, food trucks, the chili cookoff, car show, dog races, and more—leading up to the grand parade next Saturday morning at 9 a.m.

Downtown Carthage will be buzzing with activity as artisans, musicians, and community groups fill the square, celebrating local creativity and small-town charm. Whether you’re hunting for handmade crafts, cheering in the stands, or just strolling under the fall colors, Maple Leaf has something for everyone.

Organizers say this year’s celebration is shaping up to be one of the biggest yet, drawing visitors from across the region to experience the food, music, and magic that make Carthage “America’s Maple Leaf City.”

For a full schedule, parade route map, and entry details, visit carthagechamber.com.

Friday: 🌡️ 57 | 80 ☀️

Saturday: 🌡️ 62 | 81 🌤️ 

Sunday: 🌡️ 62 | 83 ☀️ 

Recap:

🏐 Women’s Volleyball (6-10)
Tuesday 10/7 at University of Central Missouri | L 3-10

⛳️ Men’s Golf
Tuesday 10/7 at UCO Skip Wagnon Invitational in Edmond, OK | 3rd

Upcoming:

🏈 Football (2-3)
Saturday 10/11 at Emporia State University | 1:00 PM

🏐 Women’s Volleyball (6-10)
Friday 10/10 at HOME vs Newman University | 6:00 PM
Saturday 10/11 at HOME vs Pittsburg State University | 3:00 PM

⚽️ Women’s Soccer (2-5-3)
Friday 10/10 at HOME vs Washburn State University | 6:00 PM

Friday

🎃 Witches Night Out: Grab your brooms and head to Christine’s Vineyard (25695 Mulberry Rd, Webb City) for a spellbinding evening of music, shopping, themed drinks, and witchy fun! Costumes are encouraged, and while reserved tables are sold out, open seating is available—just arrive early and carpool if you can. Enjoy DJ sets, dancing, local vendors, and plenty of spooky vibes. Warlocks, wizards, and muggles welcome!

🦁 Lion Pride Luncheon: Join MSSU Athletics for their next Lion Pride Luncheon at noon in the North Endzone Facility, Room 211. This session features former men’s basketball coach Robert Corn and members of the 1999–00 team. Enjoy a catered lunch from Charlie’s Chicken, plus Q&A with coaches and players. Cost is $12 ($10 for Lionbackers).

🍷 Free Tasting at Jugz Liquor & Wine: Stop by Jugz (1605 E 20th St) from 4:00–7:00 PM for a free tasting event featuring Chattanooga Whiskey, Ghost Tequila, and BarSmith mixers. Bring a friend, sip, and discover your next favorite drink — all on the house!

Saturday

🍁 Fallfest at Schuber Mitchell Homes: Free family fun at the Joplin Design Center (3331 N Rangeline Rd) with bounce houses, cornhole, face painting, a soda bar, and tacos + churros on the house—plus a raffle for 4 Silver Dollar City tickets. Bring the crew for food, games, and cozy fall vibes.

🍷 Sip & Shop Downtown Webb City: Explore local vendors, sip wine, and enjoy a relaxed evening downtown! Check in at Christine’s Vineyard’s booth (201 S Main St) to grab your wristband and event map, then stroll through participating shops for samples, specials, and exclusive deals. All wines sampled will be available for purchase by the glass or bottle. Tickets are $20 and include your tasting wristband

👻 Murphysburg After Dark: Step into the shadows of Joplin’s historic Murphysburg District for a haunted walking tour filled with eerie tales and local legends. The evening begins at Blackthorn Pizza & Pub at 6:00 PM before setting off through the Victorian-lined streets to uncover stories of spirits, mysteries, and history. Tickets are $20 (kids under 12 free). Bring comfy shoes and your curiosity for this spooky stroll through Joplin’s past.

🎨 Experience the Expertise: An Afternoon with Jeffrey C. Legg: Spend the afternoon at Spiva Center for the Arts (222 W 3rd St, Joplin) with renowned oil painter Jeffrey C. Legg as he gives a live demonstration and shares insights into his artistic process and techniques. This rare opportunity offers an inspiring look into his creative mastery. Tickets are $15 for members and $20 for nonmembers.

Sunday

🎨 Paint & Sip: Halloween Friends: Get spooky and creative at Christine’s Vineyard! Enjoy a relaxed afternoon painting adorable Halloween-themed art while sipping wine with friends. All supplies included, drinks sold separately. Tickets $25.

🕊️ Honor and Hope Remembrance Walk: Join the fourth annual Honor and Hope Remembrance Event at Mercy Park (3002 St. Johns Blvd) for an evening of love, reflection, and community. This meaningful walk honors babies who have passed too soon, offering families a space to share stories, remember, and find comfort together. The event runs from 4:00–6:30 PM

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