Joplin City Manager Mark Rohr takes the podium at city hall on January 4, 2012, to update the building progress in Joplin for the media and those interested. He reiterated that of the 7500 homes that were destroyed, building permits have been issued to repair or replace 50% of them and that 197 building permits have been issued for commercial properties. A meeting comprised of city department officials will take place on January 19, 2012 at 7 p.m. in the Billingsly Student Center on the campus of Missouri Southern State University, Joplin. Anyone interested in Joplin's recovery and re-development is encouraged to attend to show solidarity.

The chart next to him details the assistance programs available to property owners based upon incomes of $38,000 or less or $83,860 or less wishing to rebuild, make repairs or simply plant trees, for renters who want to become first time homeowners and renters who plan to stay that way. The info may be found here - www.joplinindependent.com/display_article.php/l-onstot1316633005 (Photo by Vince Rosati).