The Maple #4

letter from the publisher letter from the editor

But Baldwin City has a lot to offer throughout the summer and in to the fall. Not only are our streets lined with beautiful flowers and gardens full of color, our wonderful businesses and organizations show their passion for our community by offering a variety of events, programs, and opportunities to help keep us busy this summer.

Between the Lumberyard Arts Center and the Baldwin City Library, there are so many different opportunities to relax and stimulate creativity. Be sure to check out each website to see what classes are being offered for the whole family! The Chamber of Commerce has brought back the Third Friday Markets, allowing local makers, bakers, farmers, and more to fill the sidewalks of downtown Baldwin City with their products. I will say, I am impressed with the variety of vendors we have the pleasure of shopping from. Food Fun Fridays throughout the summer are back, and brought to you by The Nook. Get comfy on the patio with live entertainment, a food truck, and slushies.

As the summer flowers blossom, so has Baldwin City. Our downtown has been revived with newly renovated office spaces, housing Farm Bureau Financial Services & JC Grayson. Congratulations on your move! We are so excited to welcome new food selections to Baldwin! Help us welcome Baldwin City Beer Company, La Patrona, the Ice Cream House, and Gambino’s Pizza to our community. If you haven’t had a chance to belly up to the giant bar or enjoy some fresh BBQ, I highly recommend you put Baldwin City Beer Company on your to-do list. I am also looking forward to the fall when Gambino’s will officially open. Make sure to keep your eyes out for more details!

The Maple was excited to kick off the summer with the second annual Last Day of School Ice Cream Social. We want to thank everyone for coming out to celebrate with us. To see highlights of the event, flip to page 44. Speaking of the ice cream social, I would like to take the time to thank my very, very patient husband, Kyle. This man is the secret weapon of The Maple. If you need someone to solely scoop 30 gallons of ice cream, he’s the man! Not only can he carry stacks of heavy magazine boxes, he is the mastermind behind building the Adult Only Carnival games (more details on the back cover), and most importantly, he’s my biggest cheerleader.

I really hope you enjoy this edition of The Maple! Happy reading!

Jenni Fish

Publisher/Graphic Designer Owner of Design-o-Saur & The Maple jenni@baldwinmaple.com

First, a special thank you to Donna Gratts for her time spent identifying the people on page 20, and to Nick Pumphrey, Nate Poell, Mel Verhaeghe, and Ray Wilber for providing photos and information for parts of the ‘Hidden Gems’ article.

Lately, my reading material has unintentionally carried a theme of soil and roots, both in the natural world and metaphorically. During the editing process, I realized this theme was also present in Issue #4. Dirt that forever lays barren and open to the elements becomes a desert, and a society without roots to stabilize and nourish it turns into an inhabited wasteland. These pages tell of effort given in a variety of ways within the Baldwin City community to establish and maintain roots. It’s not often easy, and our efforts are sometimes imperfect, but it’s worth it. In a way, this issue is a recognition of people, past and present, who quietly or loudly, cultivate roots for those around them, and those yet to come.

Monica Brovont Editor

monica@baldwinmaple.com

We just took a giant leap into summer and I’m totally here for it (well, maybe not the heat!)

Photo

Monica Brovont

Editor/Writer

Executive Assistant at the Baldwin City Chamber of Commerce monica@baldwinmaple.com

I’ve called the BC area home for: 3 decades

See her writing on pages 39, 42, & 43

the maple contributors

PUBLISHER

Jenni Fish jenni@baldwinmaple.com

Keifer Haplin Drone Photographer

I’ve called BC home for: the first 18 years of my life.

See his photo on page 38

Jeff Hill Writer

jhill@mid-americabank.com

I’ve called BC home for: my entire life

See his writing on pages 40 & 43

Melinda B Hipple

Copy Editor

(for the purposes of The Maple, but Author by trade) melindabhipple@gmail.com

I’ve lived in Baldwin 14 years this round.

Kira Horn Social Media Coordinator Baker University Graduate

Business Major with a focus in Marketing and Management and a Minor in Economics

See her postings on social media

Jackie Hostetlzer Writer jlhostetler20@gmail.com

I’ve called BC home for: my entire life

See her writing on page 34

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Monica Brovont monica@baldwinmaple.com

DESIGN/LAYOUT

Jenni Fish

WRITERS

Monica Brovont

Jeff Hill

Jackie Hostetler

Marta Jardon

Lynn Meador

David Pratt

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Keifer Haplin

Sarah Beth Houser

Frank Perez

Susan Pitts

Keara Torkelson

COPY EDITORS

Melinda B Hipple

Lynn Meador

SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR COMMUNITY PARTNERS:

Sarah Beth Houser Photographer Crush Model Studio sarahbeth.houser@gmail.com

I’ve called BC home for: 16 years

See her photos on page 34

Susan Pitts Photographer pittsprofessionalphotography@gmail.com

I’ve called BC home for: 7 years

See her photos on pages 28

Marta Jardon Writer Secretary, Santa Fe Trail Historical Society of Douglas County + many volunteer positions martajardon1@gmail.com

I’ve called BC home for: 6 years

See her writing on page 16

Lynn Meador Writer/Copy Editor/City Liason

The City of Baldwin City, Communication Director lmeador@baldwincity.gov

I’ve called BC home for: 6 years

See her writing on page 32

The City of Baldwin City Baldwin City Chamber of Commerce

Baldwin City Library

Baldwin City Recreation Commission

Lumberyard Arts Center USD 348

INTERESTED IN ADVERTISING?

Reach out to jenni@baldwinmaple.com

David Pratt Writer info@baldwinmaple.com

See his writing on page 18

Keara Torkelson Photographer Ktork23@gmail.com

I’ve called BC home for: 8 years

See her photos on the cover, and pages 18, 39 & 44

The Maple is a bi-annual product which is published by Design-o-Saur, LLC. Printing services provided by Sutherland Printing.

Design-o-Saur, LLC PO Box 637 707 Eighth St Baldwin City, KS 66006

16

A History Mystery Solved!

Digging into the history of a ghost town’s graveyard

COMMUNITY

18

Baldwin in Bloom

A celebration of community gardens and flower spaces

28

Qulit Capital of Kansas

A centuries-old craft continues to provide a creative and connecting impact in Baldwin City

THE CITY

32

Cleaning Up Baldwin City

A behind the scenes look at a unique and valuable tradition

EDUCATION

34

Home of the Dawgs (And the Dogs)

USD 348 faculty’s dogs bring encouragement and stability to students

Sift

Baldwin City and you will soon end up with a handful of skilled and ambitious people, noteworthy items, and remarkable tales.

spotlight: USD 348

Baldwin City School District

715 Chapel, Baldwin City, KS (785) 594-2721

www.usd348.com

Dear Baldwin Families,

It is hard to believe it is already spring with summer knocking on the door. On behalf of everyone at Baldwin Schools, we want to thank our community for their continued support. This has certainly been a year to remember with so many great accomplishments in terms of academics, the arts, and athletics. We have so much to be proud of as a community.

One of the most rewarding events that takes place in the spring is the annual BHS The Avant, a collection of student art and literature originals that showcase the talents of our students. BHS teachers and The Avant sponsors, Becky Weaver and Sunny Allen, oversee the publication which is entirely student-run. Thank you to all of our community sponsors who help make this possible. It was great to see the pride on the faces of our students at the launch event at the Lumberyard Art Center.

As you head into the summer months, we hope each of you finds time to recharge and relax. There are so many fun and engaging activities that take place in Baldwin. Whether it is enjoying time on the town on Friday nights, children’s programming at the library, Baldwin Rec activities, or just having fun at the Baldwin pool, there is something for everyone.

Looking ahead, we are excited about what the future holds. Baldwin continues to be a special place to raise a family, enjoy good company, and gather as a community. I hope this summer brings each of you happiness, health, and lots of fun.

Mark Dodge

Superintedent

Baldwin

USD 348

Photograph by Frank Perez

WE ASKED: WHAT’S ONE THING YOU WISH PEOPLE KNEW?

ANSWER: We train a LOT for a wide variety of emergency scenarios. Here are some of them:

FIRE TRAINING

• structure fire

• grass fire

• automobile fire & rescue

• every month mandatory training, with weekly practice every Sunday

MEDICAL TRAINING

• emergency medical response to a wide variety of health and physical trauma

• twice a month trainings, one with LawrenceDouglas County Fire Medical, and one in-house

EMERGENCY RESPONSE TRAININGS

• water rescue

• mass casualty incident response

• weather event response

Q: DO YOU STILL HOST PUBLIC CPR TRAININGS?

A: Yes! Call the fire station at 785-594-3678 and leave a message in order to get a training scheduled.

Baldwin City Library

800 7th St, Baldwin City, KS

(785) 594-3411

baldwin.mykansaslibrary.org

PROGRAMS!

Early literacy is a passion of ours at the Library and we want to empower parents to read to their children at home.

1,000 Books Before Kindergarten is one way we accomplish that! Our Wednesday morning Story Times are always full of surprises: guest readers, music, activities and crafts, and of course some amazing books! Be on the lookout for more elementary school-age programs in the near future.

We encourage individuality here at the Library, and to stay true to that we need to

BALDWIN CITY LIBRARIANS

SHARA STEPHENSON Lead Programming Coord./Youth Services youthservices@baldwin.lib.ks.us

EVA PARKIN Teen Programming Librarian teensevices@baldwin.lib.ks.us

offer a wide variety of programming for our Teen patrons. After School Club, Art Nite and Teen Nite are how we make that possible. We cover everything with these programs: gaming tournaments, arts and crafts, movie nites, holiday bingo, and so much more.

Adult Programming is thriving! The Library is offering a variety of programs ranging from art to seed-starting to book clubs. “Not Your Typical Book Club,” Senior Tech Time, BookTalk, Bridge Club and so much more is in the works. We want to engage and inspire our adult patrons, and programs are a great way to accomplish that!

FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY

A lot of our programs, including the Summer Library Program, would not be possible without funding from the Friends of the Library. The Friends of the Library organization was established in 1986 to help focus public attention on the Baldwin City Library services, facilities, and needs, and to stimulate support for the library through membership, fundraising, and programming. Membership is open to individuals, businesses, and organizations supporting these purposes. If you are interested in becoming a member and making a difference in your community, visit The Baldwin City Library’s website, or stop by the Library!

Coming This Fall from the Friends of the Library:

The Mum Sale

September (be on the lookout for more information!)

Fall BookTalk Series: “Dearly Beloved”

September

We will be reading:

1. Being Mortal: Medicine and What Matters in the End by Atul Gawande

2. Can’t We Talk About Something More Pleasant by Roz Chast

ANGELA HIGHTREE Adult Programming Librarian circdesk1@baldwin.lib.ks.us

LISA LAFOUNTAIN Administration and Collection Develop. baldwinpl@baldwin.lib.ks.us

3. Medicine Walk by Richard Wagamese

Photographs courtesy of The Baldwin City Library

NEW PROGRAMMING!

spotlight: ART

Lumberyard Arts Center

718 High St, Baldwin City, KS (785) 594-3186

www.lumberyardartscenter.org

Hours: Tues.-Fri., 1-5 and Sat., 9-12

EVENTS

JUNE 23 & 24

NEW TEEN PROGRAM

JULY

The mission of the Lumberyard Arts Center is to be the cornerstone for creative endeavors in our community. Expanding programming to include the literary arts, we partnered with Baker University to host the Swogger Literary Salon this spring with Dr. Joanne Janssen, Professor of English. Over 70 community members, students, and faculty enjoyed an engaging evening learning about Lewis Carroll and his work with delightfullythemed culinary treats inspired by Alice in Wonderland. Historically, salons emerged in 18th-century France as an avenue for intellectual discourse in the fields of literature, politics, and science. Both men and women participated in lively conversations resulting in forums for the exchange of ideas, creativity, and innovations. Our next literary salon will be held on November 16, with Dr. Joe Watson providing insights on Ernest Hemingway. Registration for this event will begin in September.

Thanks to a Baldwin City Chamber “Be Well” grant, the arts center is launching a new program, free for Baldwin High School teens. Called “WOW Wednesdays,” this program creates safe, creative environments for students with the outcome of socio-emotional wellbeing. Activities include music jams in Sullivan Square, visual and textile arts activities at the arts center, and yoga with our partners, Om Grown Yoga & Wellness Collective. WOW Wednesdays launch in June and are offered the first Wednesday every month from 6-9pm.

JULY

JULY 21

AUGUST

SEPTEMBER 8

Cutters Union Sponsored by Baldwin State Bank 7 pm

SEPTEMBER 22 Sky Smeed 7 pm

CREATIVE PROGRAMMING AT THE LUMBERYARD ARTS CENTER.

Photograph courtesy of the Lumberyard Arts Center

spotlight: BUSINESS

Baldwin City Chamber of Commerce

719 High St, Baldwin City, KS (785) 594-3200

www.baldwincitychamber.com

director@baldwincitychamber.com

RECAP BE WELL BALDWIN CITY

There ’ s a new bee in town! Maybe you have noticed it along with the phrase “Be Well Baldwin City.” You’re likely familiar with the Baldwin City Wellness Fair, an annual spring event for over two decades. In 2023, the Baldwin City Chamber of Commerce hosted, planned, and expanded it, thanks to a generous grant from DCCCA. The expansion included a month of programming in March and locally awarded grants. Traces of these grants linger beyond March to encourage the community to stay active and healthy year-round. Some of these are a skating program for the BES Primary Center, an improved BHS student garden, and a seed library at the Baldwin City Library.

Programming began with a Kick-Off Community Walk on March 4, and ended with the Wellness Festival on March 25. Fundamentally the same as health fairs of the past, it was declared a success by vendors and attendees alike and boasted record attendance. The DCCCA grant made some changes possible including a kayak and a fourth bicycle as additional grand prizes, free blood tests, a kids zone, and youth-oriented activities. The Baldwin City Chamber of Commerce and the Be Well committee look forward to March 2024 and another round of Be Well Baldwin City!

CONTACT US OR STOP IN TO BECOME A MEMBER AND START ENJOYING ALL THE BENEFITS THE CHAMBER HAS TO OFFER.

3RD FRIDAY MARKET

DOWNTOWN BALDWIN CITY | 6 PM - 9 PM

JUNE 16 | JULY 21 | AUGUST 18 | SEPTEMBER 15

These markets are a showcase of talent, artistry, elbow grease, and edible bounty within the local area. Browse the vendor booths and the downtown shops accompanied by the strains of live music from local musicians presented by Lumberyard Live on High. Visit the website to learn more or sign up as a vendor.

Baldwin City Chamber of Commerce

CHAMBER NETWORKING SCHEDULE

JULY 27

Luncheon

12 p.m. | Lumberyard Arts Center

AUGUST 24

Happy Hour

5:30-7:30 p.m. | Baldwin City Beer Company

SEPTEMBER 28

Coffee with the Chamber 7:30-9 a.m. | Freestate Realty

OCTOBER 26

Luncheon 12 p.m. | Lumberyard Arts Center

NOVEMBER 30

Happy Hour 5:30-7:30 p.m. | The Lodge of Baldwin City

DECEMBER 7

December Holiday Open House 4:30-6:00 p.m. | Kansas State Bank

Tami Hoffman, Cheri Ochsner and Heather Jackson at Rodrock Chiropractic’s booth at the 2023 Wellness Festival.

MAPLE LEAF BEER, WINE & SPIRIT FESTIVAL

Get ready Baldwin City! The 3rd Annual Maple Leaf Beer, Wine & Spirit Festival, is coming on Saturday, October 28, 2023, from 2-5 p.m. Sponsored by Maley and Son’s Construction, this adults-only event will highlight some of the region’s best breweries, wineries, and distilleries.

Sullivan Square as well as High Street between 7th and 8th will be lined with vendors ready to share some of their best selections with you. In addition to beer, wine, and spirit samples, music by the N!te Owls will provide the soundtrack for this relaxing day. Food trucks will be onsite with food for purchase and light appetizers will be available with your ticket.

Tickets sales will end online Friday, October 27 at 11:59 p.m. Remaining tickets will then be available for purchase for $35 on Saturday at 2 p.m. in front of the BCRC offices at 705 High Street.

SMOKE ON THE BRICKS

Get ready for the 5th annual Smoke on the Bricks BBQ contest powered by Rice Precision Manufacturing on August 25th-26th 2023. This Kansas City Barbecue Society-sanctioned competition is a qualifying event for the American Royal World Series of Barbecue and the Jack Daniels World Championship. Smoke on the Bricks in 2023 is a Smokin’ With Smithfield grant recipient for the 2nd time in 3 years! In addition, get ready for one of the best Def Leppard tribute bands in the country, The Pyromaniacs, taking the stage Friday night! BBQ Bucks go on sale beginning Monday, August 21st and can be redeemed between 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. Friday, August 25. In addition to great BBQ and live music Friday night, take advantage of the beer garden, margarita wagon and Smoke on the Bricks gear for purchase. Come hungry and ready to party for the 5th Anniversary of Smoke on the Bricks!

THE 2023 POOL SEASON IS UNDERWAY!

Photograph courtesy of the Baldwin City Recreation Commission

Q&A

KIM FARMER

Kim Farmer is a local coordinator for the Council for Educational Travel USA (CETUSA).

This agency works with overseas agencies to place foreign exchange students in the USA for a semester or an academic year. They have been placing kids since 1996, and their number of students has grown every year. This year they will place approximately 1,200 students. Kim shared with The Maple about the program and her family’s own experience.

Tell us about your involvement with CETUSA: As a coordinator, I can place students in a community within sixty minutes of me. I appreciate being able to work with all sizes of schools as I have worked with larger schools in Kansas City area as well as smaller schools such as Baldwin. Once a family has chosen a student, I work with the family closely throughout the application process. When the student arrives, I keep in contact monthly with the student and the host family to make it a smooth year for everyone involved. Through

this program, I have met families that I would never have had the chance to meet otherwise.

How are the students chosen to be a part of this program? Students between the ages of 15 and 18 apply in their home country to be a part of our program. They are carefully screened by our overseas partners, and then their applications are submitted to us for an additional screening process. Standards the students must meet include speaking English sufficiently, agreeing to a standard of conduct, and maintaining at least a C average. We also check their health and immunization records and make sure they are mature enough to come to the USA for a year abroad.

What are the requirements to be a host family? Any family who is willing to open up their home and heart is welcome, but they need to pass a background check, complete an application, and be able to provide the student with a bed and meals. We have families with young active children, empty nesters, single parent homes, and samesex couples. Our students want to be a part of the family. They

are encouraged to try things here such as sports, clubs, and volunteering. The students provide their own health insurance and have money from their natural families to pay for school and athletic fees, cell phone expenses, and other monthly expenditures.

How are students matched with families? Once a host family completes the application, they are able to view student’s applications that might interest them and match with their own interests. The host family can choose their country of choice, boy or girl, and even narrow it down by looking for a student who is interested in the extra curricular activities that they are. Once the host family has chosen a student and the school has accepted the student, our agency sends off the potential host family’s information to the student’s home agency. The student will then find out they have a host family in the US, and the fun begins!

Name one reason you recommend this experience: The students will have a lifelong additional family here in the US, and you will have a son or daughter in another country to visit!

How many families in Baldwin City usually participate? The Baldwin school district has a policy that allows no more than five exchange students in the high school per year. Those five spots have been filled for the 2023-2024 school year.

What has been your experience hosting students? My family started hosting in 2006 and fell in love with the different cultures, religions, and beliefs. We feel as a family that we have gained more than we have ever shared by opening up our home. We have hosted thirteen times which covers nine different countries. This coming fall, we will be hosting two students (#14 and #15) - a girl from Germany and a girl from Italy.

The relationships with our family have stood the test of time and miles. Many of our students have been back multiple times to visit, and we feel blessed. I keep in contact with all of them.

If a family is interested in hosting in the future, they can contact Kim by email: kim.farmer2308@gmail.com or through Facebook Messenger.

Photograph courtesy of Kim Farmer

A History Mystery Solved!

Since 1893, the tall, marble angel has stood close to the entrance of Prairie City Cemetery at the southwest corner of Baldwin City. The history of this marker and its owner had been lost to time. A fire destroyed the cemetery’s early records in the 1930’s. The last member of the deceased’s immediate family passed away almost fifty years ago. Recently, however, the mystery of this marker was revealed!

This beautiful marble monument marks the final resting place of Bryon Edgar Chollar, Jr. (Pronounced Shollar – rhymes with collar). He passed away in 1892 at age nineteen from blood poisoning. The statue originally cost over $1,500, which would be over $33,000 today. It was made in Italy, then installed atop Bryon’s grave marker. On March 17, 1893, Baldwin Ledger noted that the cemetery was filled with “crowds of Baldwin people every pretty Sunday… admiring the beautiful work of art.”

Prairie City Cemetery (PCC) was established in 1855 in Kansas Territory by the town of Prairie City. It is still in use today.

John Jackson is a fourth-generation descendant of an original Prairie City pioneer family and grew up on his family’s homestead. He is the president of the Prairie City Cemetery Association (PCCA), which owns and operates the cemetery. PCCA volunteers work diligently to weed the gravesites and clean and repair the grave markers.

Jackson reported that, “Prairie City Cemetery was recently approved to complete the process to be listed on the National and State Registers of Historical Places because of the historical significance of the interred.” PCCA

Digging into the history of a ghost town’s graveyard.

Story by Marta Jardon Photography courtsey of Prairie City Cemetery

Prairie City Cemetery

Prairie City Cemetery

is researching and compiling the histories of the older “residents” to preserve their memories and the area’s history.

The histories of many resting at PCC are well-documented. The first burial in PCC was Mechlin Lobingier who passed away on August 2, 1856. Lobingier and two children came to Kansas in the summer of 1856 to “prove up” 160 acres south of Prairie City. When Mrs. Lobingier and the remaining eight children arrived in September 1856, they found the cabin completed, but Mechlin had died of malaria. The Lobingiers stayed in the area and became leaders in Wellsville and Franklin County.

Others interred include Luther Hayden Taylor (1875-1958) and Joseph Spurgeon (1864 – 1940). Taylor was a deaf, professional baseball player and pitched for the NY Giants in the early 1900s. He and his team used sign language to communicate with each other. Spurgeon was the architect and contractor responsible for many beautiful homes and buildings in Baldwin City.

Other interesting history has been discovered as the mysteries of PCC are uncovered. Reverend Mace Richard Clough was a Methodist minister who helped protect Lawrence from Border Ruffians during several conflicts before and during the Civil War. The Ashby brothers came to Prairie City in 1856 and 1857. They operated a sawmill east of current E. 1400 Road that provided the wood for many early Prairie City homes and businesses. They and several others interred served in the Kansas Militia in 1864 and fought Major General Sterling Price during the Battle of Westport. These Militia

members assisted in preventing Missouri from being recovered by the Confederacy.

Some of PCC’s mysteries will probably remain unsolved. One marker is a petrified piece of wood. No writing or carving can be seen on it. Another marker is an actual stone (piece of rock) with the initials “FC LP” hand-etched onto its face. Since the early records of the cemetery do not exist, and with few clues to go on, unraveling the mysteries of these markers will be difficult indeed.

Come visit the beautiful, historic PCC at 207 E. 1600 Road (NW corner of N. 200 and E 1600 Roads) in Baldwin City! Take the self-guided Tombstone Tour and discover historical figures and markers. The QR code provides the information and graves are marked with small flags. To see photos and learn more about the cemetery history, markers, interred, and its qualifications for the Historical Registers, go to https://santafetraildouglas.org/ prairie-city-cemetery/

HIGHLIGHTS

Prairie City

1855 - Prairie City was established with the expectation the railroad would come through. It later became West Baldwin and rural SW Baldwin.

1857 – Annunciation Catholic Church established at the Butel farm. The Church still exists today and is one of the oldest in Kansas.

1857-1858 – Prairie City’s newspaper, Freemen’s Champion, was printed by S.S. Prouty using the first printing press brought to Kansas.

1858 – Railroad charter granted.

1867 – Railroad built and served Baldwin, Lawrence, and Ottawa as well.

The Ghost Town of Prairie City, Kansas Territory

The book The Ghost Town of Prairie City, Kansas Territory contains 60 pages of history about Prairie City. It can be found at The Nook.

Your suggested donation of $5-10 for the book assists Prairie City Cemetery Association with the cleaning and the repairing of historical grave markers.

If you would like to: volunteer to research or care for the cemetery donate to the cleaning and repair of markers

• receive our annual newsletter

Contact us at prairiecity.cem@gmail.com.

If you are interested in plot purchase information, contact John Jackson at (785) 594-3094.

Baldwin in bloom

A celebration of community gardens and flower spaces

Story by David Pratt |

Photography by Keara Torkelson

Gardening in Baldwin City

Baldwin City, Kansas, is a town that prides itself on its community spirit and dedication to its natural surroundings. This dedication is evidenced by the various flower spaces and community gardens that can be found throughout the town, each maintained by passionate and committed volunteers. In this article, we will highlight some of these spaces and the organizations that manage and sponsor them. It is especially inspiring to note that many of the members of each organization are members of multiple groups, which demonstrates the tightknit community of Baldwin. At this time of the year a lot of the hard work begins, plans are put into motion, and these wonderful places begin to bloom!

One such space is Tom Swan Park, located at the corner of Seventh and High Street. Maintained by the Master Gardeners of Douglas County since 2012, this little corner of serenity ten feet from the street has some unique features that set it apart from others. It is a Master Gardeners Demonstration garden, which means it is part of a national network of gardens that are advertised as an example and inspiration to other groups around the country to

promote gardening and plant education. “When people come to tour the Lumberyard Arts Center, they often ask to see the garden, as such it is regularly included in their tours, which we are incredibly proud of.” - Marilyn Harnish, Co-Chair, Master Gardeners of Douglas County, KS.

The garden is a designated monarch way station by monarchwatch.com, which provides habitat and food for monarch butterflies during their migration. Visitors to the garden will also find a fairy garden with a mindful, meditating gnome and a variety of native plants and flowers. The gnome doesn’t yet have an official name, but the temporary moniker of Gardy, the guardian of the garden has been adopted by some of the gardeners. The Master Gardeners can be found at the garden at Friday lunchtimes. Visitors are welcome, and we encourage you all to stop by to thank them for their hard work.

Another beautiful flower space in Baldwin City is the flower bed at the city pool, maintained by the Garden Connection’s Community Service Committee. This garden is also a designated monarch way station, designed to support all pollinators. The Garden Connection also plants and maintains the large flowerbeds

Congratulations on 25 years Heritage Tractor!

Baldwin City’s very own Ken Wagner started Heritage Tractor in 1997 and this year marks a quarter of a century of providing the best advice, support, and of course, machinery for everyone in the agriculture industry and all of us in the community!

The company planted trees in the communities where their stores are located to celebrate this milestone. As the birthplace of Heritage Tractor and the location of their corporate headquarters and many of their leadership team, Baldwin City was the recipient of four of these 25 trees.

The tree locations are:

804 High Street: one crabapple sugar tyme.

Playground Park on the south side of Firetree Avenue: two bur oaks.

1515 High Street: one chinkapin oak.

Master Gardners care for the Tom Swan Park

Gardening in Baldwin City

located downtown, and again these demonstrate the group’s dedication to supporting not just the aesthetic beauty of downtown, but also continuing to support pollinators. They play a wider role in our community by protecting the ecosystem upon which many local businesses rely. The Garden Connection, established in 2006, has an active membership, and their group is open to everyone. They meet regularly to share and discuss new ideas. You can join them on the last Thursday of each month, at 1 p.m., at the Baldwin City Library.

“We hope to encourage sustainable gardening in and around Baldwin.” - Donna

Masoner, The Garden Connection

The Community Garden in Baldwin City is sponsored by the Baldwin City Business and Professional Women (BPW) and has been in operation since 2008. Barbara Pressgrove, in addition to her statewide responsibilities for the BPW, is also a dedicated member of the Baldwin community. It was she who was responsible for turning the idea into a reality in the first year by contributing her time and resources to the project as the sole gardener the first year! Today, the Community Garden is a thriving space which grows various vegetables, including onions, garlic, spinach, lettuce, carrots, cabbage, arugula, cilantro, tomatoes, peppers, dill, asparagus, and beans.

“I was president of Kansas BPW that year, and I asked each local across the state to think of a project to benefit their community. One of our members, Tammi Zibel, suggested a garden, and that’s the idea we picked.” - Barbara Pressgrove

The flower spaces and community gardens of Baldwin are a testament to the dedication and hard work of the organizations that manage and sponsor them. These areas provide beauty, education, and a sense of community to residents and visitors alike, and don’t forget the critical role that they play for pollinators, especially the Monarch butterflies. A special thank you to Donna Masoner, Marilyn Harnish, and Barbara Pressgrove for their support and for sharing their stories for this article. Thank you also to Jane Akob and Tammi Zibel for their contributions to these spaces and for being the reason they were created in the first place. To every single member of each organization, those of you who are members of more than one of the groups, you get our thanks twice or thrice for your dedication! Thank you to the City for providing utilities and supporting the maintenance of these spaces, as well as everyone else involved in making Baldwin City the beautiful place that it is.

Check out all of the organizations mentioned in the article online: Master Gardeners of Douglas County, KS dgemgks.com

The Garden Connection

www.facebook.com/gardenconnectionbaldwin

Baldwin City Community Garden www.facebook.com/baldwincitycommunitygarden

Baldwin City Business and Professional Women www.facebook.com/bpw.baldwin

Photo Above (from left to right) Michael and Lyn Speakman, Rita Brecheisen, Donna Gratts, Dianna Norris, Paula Mader, Linda Wright, Sharon Mader, Sandy Ralston, Karen Kohn, Carol Rooker, Donna Massoner, Pam Shadoin, Marilyn Harnish and Janet Kissinger

Agriculture/ Agritourism

AD ASTRA ALPACAS

168 E 1700 Rd., Baldwin City 66006 785-594-6767 grampaca168@gmail.com adastraalpacas.com

HORNBERGER FARMS

Baldwin City, KS 620-380-1392 hornbergerfarms@gmail.com

WILD IVY HERB FARM

649 E. 1450 Rd., Lawrence 66046 lbtrojan@gmail.com wildivyherbfarm.com

Architectural & Engineering

BG CONSULTANTS

1405 Wakarusa Dr., Lawrence 66049 785-749-4474 info@bgcons.com bgcons.com

Arts & Culture

LUMBERYARD ARTS CENTER

718 High St., Baldwin City 66006 785-594-3186 director@lumberyardartscenter.org lumberyardartscenter.org

Assisted Living Services

VINTAGE PARK AT BALDWIN CITY

321 Crimson Ave., Baldwin City 66006 785-594-4255 vintageparkassistedliving.com

Automotive

GREGG BRUCE AUTO AND PERFORMANCE

601 High St., Baldwin City 66006 785-594-4088 greggbruceauto@gmail.com greggbruceauto.com

Chambers of Commerce

BALDWIN CITY

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

P.O. Box 501, Baldwin City 66006 719 High St., Baldwin City 66006 785-594-3200 director@baldwincitychamber.com baldwincitychamber.com

EUDORA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 1402 Church St., Eudora 66025 785-542-1212 director@eudorakansaschamber.com eudorakansaschamber.com

GARDNER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

109 E Main St., Gardner 66030 913-856-6464 info@gardnerchamber.com gardnerchamber.com

LAWRENCE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

646 Vermont St., Ste. 200, Lawrence 66044 785-865-4411 lawrencechamber.com

OTTAWA AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

109 E. 2nd St., Ottawa 66067 785-242-1000 ottawakansas.org

WELLSVILLE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

P.O. Box 472, Wellsville 66092 785-816-0406 wellsvillechamberofcommerce@ hotmail.com wellsvillechamber.org

Churches

BALDWIN FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 704 8th St., Baldwin City 66006 785-594-6612 pastorabaker@gmail.com baldwinfirst.org

Clubs/Nonprofit organizations

BALDWIN CITY BUSINESS & PROFESSIONAL WOMEN

P.O. Box 503, Baldwin City 66006

BALDWIN CITY ROTARY CLUB

P.O. Box 385, Baldwin City 66006 785-766-5849 amy@livingspacellc.com baldwincityrotary.com

BALDWIN LIONS CLUB

P.O. Box 543, Baldwin City 66006 hazejl@hotmail.com

BLACK JACK BATTLEFIELD TRUST INC. 163 E. 2000 Rd., Wellsville 66092 785-260-7779

battleofblackjack@gmail.com blackjackbattlefield.org

FRIENDS OF THE BALDWIN CITY LIBRARY

P.O. Box 565, Baldwin City 66006 785-594-3411

friendsofbaldwinlibrary@gmail.com baldwin.mykansaslibrary.org/friends

KANSAS SUICIDE PREVENTION HQ Admin Line: 785-841-9900

Local Crisis Line: 785-841-2345

Suicide & Crisis Line (call/text):9-8-8 ksphq.org

MIDNIGHT FARM –GOODLIFE INNOVATIONS

2084 N. 600 Rd., Baldwin City 66006 785-727-9049 kayleeclark@mygoodlife.org midnight-farm.org

SANTE FE TRAIL

HISTORICAL SOCIETY, INC.

P.O. Box 379, Baldwin City 66006 santafetraildouglas.org

SENIOR RESOURCE CENTER FOR DOUGLAS COUNTY

745 Vermont St., Lawrence 66044 785-842-0543 contact@yourSRC.org yoursrc.org

THE WILLOW DOMESTIC VIOLENCE CENTER

1920 Moodie Rd., Lawrence 66046 785-331-2034 24/7 Help Line 785-843-3333 admin@willowdvcenter.org willowdvcenter.org

WATKINS MUSEUM OF HISTORY

1047 Massachusetts St., Lawrence 66044 785-841-4109 watkinsmuseum.org

Consulting CAREER ADVANTAGE RESUMES

P.O. Box 532, Baldwin City, KS 66006 785-865-8528 info@careeradvantageresumes.com

Economic

Development

BALDWIN CITY

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

P.O. Box 4, Baldwin City 66006 785-766-1306 dhill@mid-americabank.com

Education

BAKER UNIVERSITY

615 Dearborn St., Baldwin City 66006 785-594-6451 president@bakeru.edu bakeru.edu

BALDWIN CITY UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT 348

715 Chapel St., Baldwin City 66006 785-594-2721 usd348.com

BALDWIN EDUCATION FOUNDATION

P.O. Box 67, Baldwin City 66006 785-760-5427 rlweaver50@gmail.com baldwineducationfoundation.org

BALDWIN ELEMENTARY SCHOOLINTERMEDIATE CENTER

100 Bullpup Ln., Baldwin City 66006 785-594-2446

usd348.com/schools/besic

BALDWIN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL –PRIMARY CENTER

500 Lawrence St., Baldwin City 66006 785-594-2444

usd348.com/schools/bespc

BALDWIN HIGH SCHOOL

415 Eisenhower St., Baldwin City 66006 785-594-2725 usd348.com/schools/bhs

BALDWIN JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL 400 Eisenhower St., Baldwin City 66006 785-594-2448 usd346.com/schools/bjhs

EAST CENTRAL KANSAS COOPERATIVE IN EDUCATION (ECKCE)

600 High St., Baldwin City 66006 dwray@eckce.com 785-594-2737 eckce.com

THE DWAYNE PEASLEE TECHNICAL TRAINING CENTER, INC.

2920 Haskell Ave., Ste. 100, Lawrence 66046 785-856-1801 andrea.chavez@peasleetech.org peasleetech.org

THE RAINBOW EXPERIENCE PRESCHOOL 115 6th St, Baldwin City, 66006 785-594-2223 rainbowexperiencebaldwin@yahoo.com rainbowexperiencepreschool.org

Events Facilities

BALDWIN CITY LIBRARY 800 7th St., Baldwin City 66006 785-594-3411 director@baldwin.lib.ks.us baldwincitylibrary.org

BALDWIN FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 704 8th St., Baldwin City 66006 785-594-6612 pastorabaker@gmail.com baldwinfirst.org

BALDWIN GOLF ASSOCIATION 1102 Main St., Baldwin City 66006 785-979-9491

jake@baldwinstatebank.com baldwincitygolf.com

LUMBERYARD ARTS CENTER 718 High St., Baldwin City 66006 785-594-3186

director@lumberyardartscenter.org lumberyardartscenter.org

MEMBERS HIGHLIGHTED IN BLUE ARE PARTNERS OR ADVERTISERS OF THE MAPLE.

Implementing the Mainstreet Approach

THE LIGHT CENTER

1542 Woodson Rd., Baldwin City 66006 785-255-4586 info@lightcenter.info lightcenter.info

Financial Services

ABC SERVICES

620-629-7332 ronda widener@yahoo.com

BALDWIN STATE BANK

721 High St., Baldwin City 66006

112 8th St., Baldwin City 66006 785-594-6421 baldwinstatebank.com

EDWARD JONES 723 8th St., Baldwin City 66006 785-594-2910 jennifer.hantsbarger@edwardjones.com edwardjones.com

GLASS CONSULTING, LLC

1117 Lawrence Ave., Lawrence 66049 785-727-4305 edwina.glass@cpa.com glassconsultingllc.com

KANSAS STATE BANK

602 Ames St., Baldwin City 66006 785-594-7500 mykansasstatebank.com

MID AMERICA BANK

802 Ames St., Baldwin City 66006 785-594-2100 jhill@mid-americabank.com mid-americabank.com

NEW FRONTIER TAX & BUSINESS SERVICES

810 High St., Baldwin City, 66006 785-594-1204 newfrontiertbs.com

RCB BANK

3300 W. 6th St., Lawrence 66049 785-330-7739 jared.todd@rcbbank.bank rcbbank.bank

Food and Drink

JITTERS LLC

822 Ames St., Baldwin City 66006 785-551-2938 jittersatthetrolley@gmail.com

RAVEN’S TABLE CATERING

P.O. Box 884, Baldwin City 66006 785-766-2240 ravenstablecatering@gmail.com ravenstablecatering.com

SAFRIN ACRES FARM ENTERPRISES

703 8th St., Baldwin City 66006 785-760-2758 safrinacres@gmail.com

THE BULLPEN 811 8th St., Baldwin City 66006 785-594-1170

THE CORNER LIQUOR STORE, LLC 310 Ames St., Baldwin City 66006 785-594-3555 Csmann91@gmail.com

Funeral Services

PRAIRIE CITY CEMETERY ASSOCIATION

207 East 1600 Rd., Baldwin City 66006 785-594-3094 prairiecity.cem@gmail.com

Health/Wellness

BALDWIN CITY DENTAL 414 Ames St., Baldwin City 66006 785-594-9834 cleiszlerdds@sunflower.com baldwincitydental.com

BERT NASH COMMUNITY MENTAL HEALTH CENTER 200 Maine St., Ste. A, Lawrence 66044 785-830-1745 efarley@bertnash.org bertnash.org

OM GROWN YOGA AND WELLNESS COLLECTIVE 816 High Street, Baldwin City 66006 785-816-0207 omgrownyogacollective@gmail.com omgyc.com

PK THERAPY LLC 811 Grove St., Baldwin City 66006 816-868-8909 matt@pktherapyot.com pktherapyot.com

RODROCK CHIROPRACTIC 412 Ames St., Baldwin City 66006 785-594-4894 chirorock.com

Home Improvement/ Construction

A & H AIR CONDITIONING AND HEATING, INC. (HVAC) 785-594-3357 info@ah-air.com ah-air.com

HOMETOWN CONSTRUCTION

1403 9th St., Baldwin City 66006 785-979-0043

hometownconstruction785@gmail.com hometownconstruction785.com

MALEY & SONS CONSTRUCTION, LLC

1571 N. 400th Rd., Baldwin City 66006 913-908-7978

danielle@maleyandsons.com

WHEATFIELD FLOORING 785-424-3696 wheatfieldflooring@gmail.com

Individuals

BOOTSIE LAURIDSEN

BRUCE EVELAND

GERALD SANDEN

ILENE KIMSEY

JIM WILSON

KELLEY BETHELL-SMITH

LINDA BALLINGER

ROGER L. BOYD

SHARON MESSENGER

Insurance

A & D HEALTHCARE SOLUTIONS

Aleshka Haas 913-245-1253 ahass@myhst.com

Dustin Haas 913-787-3041 dhass@myhst.com myhst.com/agent/aleshka-haas

CODY ANNO - STATE FARM

Baldwin City Chamber of Commerce

Library

BALDWIN CITY LIBRARY

800 7th St., Baldwin City 66006 785-594-3411

director@baldwin.lib.ks.us baldwincitylibrary.org

Lodging

ROOMS2STAY

703 9th St., Baldwin City 66006 913-683-1758 cathenry.ch@gmail.com rms2stay.com

THE LIGHT CENTER

1542 Woodson Rd., Baldwin City 66006 785-255-4586 info@lightcenter.info lightcenter.info

Manufacturing CUSTOM MOBILE EQUIPMENT, INC. 439 E. High St., Baldwin City 66006 785-594-7474 sales@versa-lift.com versa-lift.com

208 Baker St., Ste. A, Baldwin City 66006 785-594-0270 cody@codyismyagent.com codyismyagent.com

FARM BUREAU FINANCIAL SERVICES

721 8th St., Baldwin City 66006 785-594-1055 kellyneufeld.fbfs.com

INTEGRITY MIDWEST INSURANCE LLC

2500 W. 31st St., Ste. B, Lawrence 66047 785-856-5100 clint@integritymw.com integritymidwestins.com

JARDON INSURANCE

705 8th St., Baldwin City 66006 913-486-0061 galen@jardoninsurance.com jardoninsurance.com

Internet Service

Provider

MEDIACOM COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION

717 High St., Baldwin City 66006 P.O. Box 571, Baldwin City 66006 785-594-2216 mediacomcable.com

FREE STATE FIREARMS 609 High St., Baldwin City 66006 785-594-3005 tholland@freestatefirearms.co freestatefirearms.co

RICE PRECISION MANUFACTURING 401 E. High St., Baldwin City 66006 785-594-2670

accounting@rice-precision.com rice-precision.com

Media/Production/ Publishing

BALDWIN CITY LIVING/SUNFLOWER PUBLISHING 785-832-7264

jmorgan@sunflowerpub.com sunflowerpub.com

DESIGN-O-SAUR 785-764-9114

jennimfish@gmail.com design-o-saur.com

GREAT PLAINS PROMO AND BALDWIN CITY MADE 707 8th St., Baldwin City 66006 785-594-5171

greatplainspromo@gmail.com

IMPERIUM PUBLISHING 703 8th St., Baldwin City 66006 316-833-6111

niki@imperiumpublishing.com imperiumpublishing.com

26

MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY

Baldwin City Chamber of Commerce

THE BALDWIN CITY COMMUNITY NEWS

703 8th St., Baldwin City 66006 316-833-6111 niki@imperiumpublishing.com

THE MAPLE jenni@baldwinmaple.com baldwinmaple.com

Musical Instruments

SANDROCK MUSIC COMPANY, LLC

1705 N. 600th Rd., Baldwin City 66006 913-940-3766 info@sandrockmusic.com

Printing/Signs

360 DOCUMENT SOLUTIONS

22119 W 83rd St. Shawnee 66227 785-201-4765 derekb@360documentsolutions.com 360documentsolutions.com

Real Estate/Rentals

BALDWIN CITY PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

Baldwin City, KS 66006 785-813-1293 baldwincity4rent@gmail.com baldwincity4rent.com

GOLD LEAF SENIOR LIVING 904 Ridge Rd., Baldwin City 66006 785-766-7500 jhill@mid-americabank.com

LIVING SPACE, LLC

715 High St., Ste. A, Baldwin City 66006 785-766-5849 amy@livingspacellc.com livingspacellc.om

Real Estate

FREESTATE REALTY

604 High St., Baldwin City 66006

Steve Pittman, broker 785-594-1428

Kim Bergan, associate broker 785-393-2720

kim@freestaterealtors.com

Lindsay Schofield 785-551-0411 lindsay@freestaterealtors.com

Devin Williams 785-615-0456

devin@freestaterealtors.com

Douglas Spradlin 785-592-3464 douglas@freestaterealtors.com

HAYDEN OUTDOORS REAL ESTATE

Shad Sheldon 785-821-2666 shad@haydenoutdoors.com

Penny Sheldon 785-821-2011 penny@haydenoutdoors.com haydenoutdoors.com

REECENICHOLS PREFERRED REALTY 5120 Congressional Circle, Ste. 500, Lawrence 66049

Mary Ann Deck 785-856-6200 lawrence@reecenichols.com Lawrence.reecenichols.com

Teri Ediger 785-766-4248 teri@reecenichols.com

STEPHENS REAL ESTATE, INC. 600 Lawrence Ave., Lawrence 66049 785-841-4500

Chris Earl chrisearl@stephensre.com

Oliver Minnis oliverminnis@stephensre.com 703 High St., Baldwin City 66006 stephensre.com

Denise Bridwell 913-980-2864 denisebridwell@stephensre.com

Robyn Elder 785-331-9898 robynelder@stephensre.com

Recreation/ Entertainment

BALDWIN CITY BLUES

19706 W. 63rd Terrace, Shawnee 66218 816-419-3904 mmooreblues@hotmail.com baldwincityblues.org

BALDWIN CITY RECREATION COMMISSION

705 High St., Baldwin City 66006 785-594-3670 matt@baldwinrec.org baldwinrec.org

BALDWIN GOLF ASSOCIATION

1102 Main St., Baldwin City 66006 785-979-9491 jake@baldwinstatebank.com baldwincitygolf.com

Shopping/Retail/ Gift

BALDWIN FEED COMPANY

1600 High St., Baldwin City 66006 785-594-3161 bfeed92@yahoo.com

HERITAGE TRACTOR, INC.

915 Industrial Park Rd., Baldwin City 66006 785-594-6486 cduft@heritagetractor.com heritagetractor.com

QUILTERS’ PARADISE

713 8th St., Baldwin City 66006 785-594-3477 quiltfabsupply@yahoo.com quiltingfabricsupply.com

THE NOOK 703 8th St., Baldwin City 66006 785-594-2526 thebcnook@gmail.com

THE SHOPS AT THE LODGE 502 Ames St., Baldwin City 66006 785-594-3900 baldwincitylodge@gmail.com baldwinlodge.com

TWILL TRADE BOUTIQUE

717 8th St., Baldwin City 66006 785-363-0008 thetwilltrade@gmail.com shoptwilltrade.com

Storage Facilities

3G SELF STORAGE 280 E. 1260 Rd., Baldwin City 66006 785-764-4661 3gselfstorage@gmail.com 3gselfstorage.com

OUT WEST STORAGE 1704 High St., Baldwin City 66006 785-418-2770 gatorhorsedee66@gmail.com

Utilities

CITY OF BALDWIN CITY, KANSAS 803 8th St., Baldwin City 66006 785-594-6427 baldwincity.org

Veterinary Services COMPANION ANIMAL HOSPITAL 504 Ames St., Baldwin City 66006 785-594-2413 baldwincitycah@gmail.com baldwincitycah.wixsite.com

Jennifer Hantsbarger AAMSTM, CRPCTM

723 Eighth Street Baldwin City, KS 66006

Bus: 785-594-2910

Fax: 888-795-9471

Envision your life with financial security and independence. What does it look like for YOU?

It is truly a privilege to serve clients throughout the United States as their chosen financial advisor. It's a role I take great pride and personal satisfaction from. I've had the honor of witnessing generations of clients and their families make their vision a reality. These personal relationships often begin out of necessity: retirement, a financial life change, career change or inheritance. Money and finances are intimate. Transitions are stressful. Therefore, the process begins with me and my team listening. Our goal is first to understand so we can educate and empower as we partner to help make your vision a reality.

During our one-on-one meetings, we will venture through this process together, assessing your individual needs, developing achievable goals, and implementing tailored solutions for your customized investment strategy. Oh, and we will have fun while we do this because this office loves to laugh and enjoy life! My team is dedicated to

being here with you through every step and to help celebrate your journey. We can do this via phone, web conference or in person at our Baldwin City, KS location. We love technology, and our goal is to make things easy for our clients. I enjoy the challenge of

you the freedom to continue focusing on what matters most to YOU.

As a wife, mother, and grandmother I know the importance of planning and preparing for your family’s financial future for generations to come. I am proud to be part of Edward Jones, a company that has been in the business for over 100 years. With the support of thousands of people, tools, and smart technology, we have the valuable resources to confidently set you on a path to your future. Knowing that 7 million investors trust Edward Jones with investment advice, I know our approach allows me to do what I love most - educate, have fun, and protect what you have worked hard for.

I look forward to helping you.

developing complex, high net worth strategies which often require collaboration with other professionals such as CPAs and attorneys, but don't worry, our repeatable process means you don't have to reinvent the wheel –we've already done the work and will guide you with empathy, understanding and straight talk. Partnering with a professional financial advisor will allow

Financial Advisor

Edward Jones

Edward Jones, Member SIPC

jennifer.hantsbarger@edwardjones.com

“As a financial advisor in Baldwin City, my priority is to educate and empower you as we partner to help make your dreams a reality.”

Quilt Capital of Kansas

A centuries-old craft continues to provide a creative and connecting impact in Baldwin City.

On February 14, 2019, the Kansas Senate passed Resolution No. 1711 designating Baldwin City as the Quilt Capital of Kansas. The effort, spearheaded by Sharon Vesecky, owner of Quilters’ Paradise and supported by the Baldwin City Chamber of Commerce, found a champion in Senator Tom Holland, who introduced the resolution to the Kansas Senate. “Quilting has a rich tradition in Baldwin City that supports our community both socially and economically. Its impact flies under the radar, but its presence is strong,” states Sharon. From the Maple Leaf Quilt Guild established in 1991, to one of the oldest quilting shops in the nation, Quilters’ Paradise, to the tradition of the annual quilt exchange with Baldwin City’s international Sister City, Riviersonderend, South Africa, and the annual presentation of quilts to local veterans on Veterans Day, quilting has a longstanding and diverse presence in Baldwin City.

Impetus for working on the resolution stemmed, in part, to bring awareness to quilting’s impact on the community and, importantly, to develop robust textile arts programming throughout the year for residents to participate as well as to bolster Baldwin City as a quilters’ destination. Quilting is a $3.5 billion industry with 10 million quilters nationwide. Baldwin City’s designation provides a powerful

Story by Lumberyard Arts Center

Photography by Susan Pitts, Pitts Photography

Quilt Capital of Kansas

Offered at the Lumberyard Arts Center every Wednesday from 10a.m. -3 p.m. and the first Wednesday evening every month from 6 p.m.-9 p.m. The open studio is for beginners to the advanced quilter or sewer.

platform to promote Baldwin City as a place to discover by building upon culture, creativity, and innovation akin to the economic tourism vitality Paducah, KY, has leveraged as “Quilt Capital USA.”

While Quilters’ Paradise attracts quilters around the region through triannual shop hops, there is opportunity to expand the time visitors stay in Baldwin City to shop, eat, and create. “At the shop,” laughs Sharon, we have so much inventory that we squeeze out any space to accommodate a group of people interested in taking a class!” Given this challenge, she forged a partnership with the Lumberyard Arts Center to jointly vision Quilt Capital of Kansas programming. According to Ruth Rodden, president of the Lumberyard Arts Center board, “We are the home for creative endeavors, and it is through our programming that people become connected and community is built. It was a natural fit for us to expand our visual and performing arts offerings to include textile arts. Quilting is an art with creativity shining through in fabric selections, design creation, and execution. The completion of a beautiful quilt shows only part of the total creative decision-making involved.”

Quilt Capital programming, launched in 2022, includes year round rotating quilt exhibits at the Lumberyard Arts Center, classes and workshops for youth and adults, and textile open studio. “The textile creative studio is for everyone, free of

29 COMMUNITY

charge, - for those who are curious about learning how to quilt or the seasoned quilter and every skill in between. We have fabric, supplies, and donated machines to learn on and quilters who are on site to lend their expertise,” explains Ruthie.

This past January, the arts center featured internationally renowned quilter and historian, Marla Jackson, and her “story quilts” in a gallery exhibit that visually explored the topics of Black resistance and freedom. As Quilt Capital of Kansas programming becomes established, future programming is visioned to include bi-annual quilt retreats, an annual Baldwin City quilt festival that complements the Maple Leaf Festival quilt show and establishment of a trail of quilt barn blocks throughout southern Douglas County. The collaborative textile arts programming embraces core values of the arts center, explains Jeannette Blackmar, executive director, including “partnership, creativity, inclusivity, and experiential learning that contributes to our vision to develop a dynamic makerspace arts hub in downtown Baldwin City where people come together to create, play, and innovate.” At the heart of Quilt Capital of Kansas programming is the welcoming of people of all ages and abilities to discover, learn, exchange ideas, and socialize. This realizes the essence of the Lumberyard Arts center where the arts create community.

(Clockwise from left) textile open studio at the Lumberyard Arts Center, Diana Prout, Candy Layton, Susan Robare and Mary Hogan

Quilt Capital of Kansas

WHY I QUILT

Norma Jardon

My love for piecing and quilting goes back to my childhood and continues to the present. My mother always had quilt pieces in a box or a quilt in a frame during winter time. They kept us warm, and some were more beloved than colorful. Each of us seven children has a quilt from her as does her fourteen grandchildren. My sister and I had a job every morning before we walked to school to thread enough needles to last her until we returned from school. I have many fond memories of the neighborhood ladies getting together to quilt and visit. Going somewhere every day wasn’t in schedules in the 1930s and 1940s as we live and do today.

I’m basically a scrap quilter and lazy - I need an easy pattern. My quilts are for usewherever best suited - wall, bed, or table. Many years ago my husband asked me to do wall hangings for the post office. I tried to have something new and different three or four times a year. It did make an impression on the postal people. I’ve shared my quilts at Orchard Lane Nursing Home, and residents so enjoyed touching the quilts and remembering their own quilting stories. Two people who always impressed me were Betty Hagerman, whom I felt was everyone’s quilt friend, and Chris Edmonds - her art and stitchery would be impossible for me to match. I have enough projects to keep me busy for a long time - I never run out of ideas!

Angie Spielman

Quilting and learning how to make quilts has filled my heart with joy. I love the challenge, the creativity, and the satisfaction of completing a project from start to finish. When making a piece for an individual, I think about that person while stitching away. It brings me joy to know that I am creating something with my own hands to share with that person. All the decision making of color combinations and techniques keeps my mind and skills sharp. The most rewarding part of quilting is getting together with others that also enjoy quilting and having great fellowship and learning from others. When making a quilt, I feel a sense of connection with my ancestors.

Cheryl Travis

To me a, quilt is a warm hug in the middle of the night when you’re snuggling to keep warm. It’s a comfort on the lap of a sick person. Quilts can express our artistic abilities in so many ways. I always keep a quilt as a small wallhanging in my entry way to express the changing seasons and special holiday themes.

Jean Reynolds

Making quilts is a time for being creative, relaxing, and to thinking about the person for whom the quilt will go to—blessings and prayers.

Liz GranbergJerome

I’ve had a life-long passion for creating things out of fabric, having started sewing before I was 10 years old. After 50+ years of making clothes for myself, my family, and even a few commissions, I switched to quilting around 2008 while caregiving my elderly father. This switch was a two-fold blessing—it was a hobby that was a wonderful, creative outlet, and it provided me with something I could do at home, keeping me available in case Dad needed me. Several years later, I was able to take my quilting passion to the next level when I became the regular quilting teacher at Quilters’ Paradise in Baldwin City, Kansas. Sharing my passion with other quilters, whether beginners learning the basics or experienced quilters learning a new technique, feeds my soul. I find I am able to meet each student where they are and present the information they need in a way that suits their learning style. Some quilters are visual learners and do better at the sewing machine. Others can read a pattern and figure it out on their own. Often a single unit can be made multiple ways. When I teach the various options, it allows each student to practice each and then go forward using the technique that works best for them.

Through quilting, I can create beautiful quilts out of fabric and batting that can be loved by my family and friends. I’ve helped non-quilters by making commissioned quilts to honor graduations and anniversaries with collected t-shirts or photos printed on fabric. I share a piece of myself when I gift a quilt to someone, knowing that every stitch was stitched with love and prayer. My quilts are made to be loved and used, not folded up and saved for “some special day” that never comes.

Photograph courtesy of Norma Jardon, Angie Spielman, Cheryl Travis, Jean Reynolds and Liz Granberg-Jerome

Cleaning Up

BaldwinCity

A behind the scenes look at a unique and valuable tradition

Story by Lynn Meador

Citywide Cleanup is a Baldwin City event that’s as much a tradition as the Maple Leaf Festival, in its own way. Always the second Saturday of October, the Saturday right before Maple Leaf Festival, this ritual goes back at least 25 years, and we suspect much longer.

Public Works Director Rob Culley recalls doing curbside pickup for the twice a year event back in 1988, when he started working for the city. Back then, the world was a different place. Baldwin City was little more than half the current size, at around 2,900 folks living here. Regulations regarding solid waste disposal were a little less specific. Curbside pickup is no longer possible for Citywide Cleanup, but the event remains an important part of Baldwin City life.

Mattie Robertson, Administrative Assistant for Public Works and Oakwood Cemetery, has worked for the City for about five years. That means she’s planned ten Citywide Cleanup events now, and is our resident expert on the subject. I sat down with her recently to talk about how the day happens and what the behind-the-scenes looks like.

LM: How long has the city hosted this bi-annual cleanup day?

MR: Since at least some time before 1988, according to Rob. Maybe always? [laughter]

LM: How is Citywide Cleanup Day staffed? Are workers scheduled?

MR: City staff works the event on a paid volunteer basis.

LM: What kind of items do you accept and what if someone brings things you can’t dispose of?

MR: No construction materials are allowed in the burn/brush pile, because any disallowed materials discovered by the state of Kansas would result in the city losing their ability to burn brush permanently. No tires, no construction items, no hazardous materials. We do provide information on how to dispose of those items properly. Appliances are accepted; trash is accepted; all sizes of batteries are accepted and recycled; construction debris is not. Small homeowner projects are fine, but the city can’t be responsible for professional construction companies and large-scale remodeling projects (whole house rug removal, etc).

LM: Where do the trash, recycling, and batteries go?

MR: Ottawa Sanitation hauls off the trash. Haskell Recycling handles the metals, including appliances. Batteries are also recycled. The dumpsters are usually donated by Ottawa Sanitation, but the city pays to haul off the trash. Recycling is the same — Haskell Recycling donates the dumpsters. The recycled metals and batteries do generate some revenue which offsets the total cost to some degree. Oh, an important note: We can accept electronics, like computers and such, but they do not get recycled.

LM: A few people seem to think city staff should still do curbside pickup. Can you talk about why that doesn’t work anymore?

MR: Oh yes, some people still ask why the city doesn’t do curbside pickup, why it isn’t

a whole weekend instead of a 6 hour event twice a year. The main reason why not is lack of available staffing. The volunteers are actively working the entire time — compacting trash, burning the brush pile, helping unload large items, etc. Dedicating 6-8 people per day is not possible on a normal work day — that’s most of the main public works staff, who all have a full load of other duties to accomplish. Brush pick up after storms is still a curbside service the city tries to dedicate staffing to whenever possible. This is not done for more than a week after a storm, again because of staffing scarcity. If someone wants to be sure their brush gets picked up during that week after a weather incident, call public works and you will be added to the brush pickup list.

LM: Tell me about how the day works and what happens to the items brought in.

MR: The hours we’re open are pretty well set in stone, because it’s a long hard day. The guys show up by 7:30am at the latest to get everything ready for the

8am open. We do what we can ahead of time, up to two months before the event. Prep work like putting out barriers, laying out the zones, contacting trash and recycling companies, getting out flyers and advertising materials — that gets done before the actual day. But then on the day itself, there’s brush to burn and manage, trash to compact, metal to put in the recycling dumpsters.

LM: What’s the general atmosphere of the day for workers and also for people dropping off items?

MR: We try to have fun. It’s a Saturday. The city purchases lunch for the guys, we pray for decent weather. I try to streamline the day as much as possible so people don’t need to leave for lunch or to run errands. People follow the rules pretty well — not very many people try to bring items that just can’t be accepted. Myself and at least one other volunteer meet people at the gate to help people know where to go in the maze that is the public works grounds, and we try to keep it lighthearted.

BY THE NUMBERS

(from last two years)

4 events

86.81 tons trash collected

employee hours

(6.75 employees per event)

27.64 TONS RECYCLED METAL Loads of brush burned

648 dumpsters per event, 32 for two years (four events)

infinite

Home of the

USD 348 faculty’s dogs bring encouragement and stability to students

Story by Jackie Hostetler

Photography by Sarah Beth Houser

Walk down any hallway, in any school building within the Baldwin City School District, and it’s evident that dogs have an enormous impact on the culture of USD #348. Images of bright purple bulldogs, affectionately referred to as “Dawgs,” gaze at students and staff from almost every corner - some with intimidating sneers, others with sweet smiles. Even the connecting street between the elementary campuses on the west side of town pays homage to the four-legged mascot with its apropos name: Bull Pup Lane. Perhaps the term “enormous” is an understatement. There are a few less memorialized, but no less important, pups in the district, Bunny and Luke.

Principal Derek Bland and therapy dog Luke, a five-year-old, mixed breed, golden-doodle, keep things happily humming at Baldwin Junior High. Formally, Luke Hoth Bland and his sister Leia Endor Bland (see sidebar), were both born on May 8th, only four days after Star Wars Day, for those in the audience who are paying attention. Luke is a star in his own right, garnering much attention in his role as therapy dog, a role which entails a lot.

“I explain it like this to our students,” begins Bland. “When a dog earns their therapy dog endorsement, it’s like getting your high school degree. When a dog earns a service dog endorsement, it’s like getting your college degree. Service dogs are typically trained to a much higher level. One of the main goals for a therapy dog, like Luke, is to be gentle and receptive to snuggles. He is quite good at that.” Bland serves as Luke’s handler, which refers to a service dog’s human companion. “Though Luke sees me (I imagine) as the human with the bag of bacon strips,” quips Bland.

Luke is certified through the American Kennel Club. There were months of training as well as a final test. Some of the tasks were rather simple, like “sit” and “stay,” while others were more challenging. According to Bland, there was a distraction test that Luke struggled with when he began training. This proved a bit frustrating, not only for Luke, but also for Bland. “I was anxious to get him into school and work with our students,” says Bland. Now that Luke is settled in, the students are his top priority.

LEIA, THE PIONEERING PUP

As with anything new, there needs to be a phase of research and development. In the case of therapy and service dogs within the Baldwin City School District, golden-doodle Leia was the perfect test subject.

Leia, sister to Luke, was the first dog to try out the role of therapy dog. She began attending the junior high with Principal Derek Bland in the spring of 2019, when she was about one year old. Her tenure within the building only lasted about one semester. According to Bland, Leia is an incredibly obedient dog, but the school setting was too overwhelming for her docile personality.

“You could tell from her body language that she was not enjoying all of the attention from strangers, despite doing exactly what she was trained to do,” explains Bland. “Being a therapy dog just wasn’t her personality. She wanted to be a companion dog for just our family.”

Any parent, pet or otherwise, will tell you that making such decisions involving their adoredone is never an easy task, even when it’s clearly the right call.

“He likes to be the center of attention. He’ll pout, in his own way, if he just sits in my office during a boring, human meeting. The puppy dog eyes and small sighs start not long after being ignored. It’s not to the point of being a distraction, but it’s enough to let me know he is ready to work. He wants to see the people, play fetch, and get belly rubs.” It appears that Luke is a priority with the students too.

“Therapy dogs are a wonderful asset for a school. They add a layer of culture to a school that you don’t get any other way,” highlights Bland. “When students see Luke coming down the hall, they get excited, but they also know that if they are too loud we won’t visit their classroom. He really helps set the expectations for climate better than some humans! I am so grateful that Baldwin City schools and the community have been so receptive to the program.”

“The decision to pull her from school was easy enough because the struggle was obvious, but at the same time, it was difficult for me personally. We had put a lot of effort into her being able to get into school. Ultimately, a dog’s handler has a duty to do what is in the best interest of the dog,” says Bland.

Though the school setting wasn’t quite right for Leia, she set the stage for a whole pack of pups to begin attending USD #348, including Luke, who began at the junior high one semester later. Other canine companions within the district include Mozart and Herschel, both at the junior high, and Winston, who attends the Baldwin Elementary School, Intermediate Center.

“He wants to see the people, play fetch, and get belly rubs.“

EDUCATION

USD 348 Support Animals

Just a few blocks away, Baldwin Elementary School Primary Center is home to Bunny, a four-year-old English Labrador, and her handler, Sarah Chambers. Chambers has been a paraprofessional at the Primary Center for two years, and Bunny has been by her side the whole time. The role that Bunny plays is a bit different than that of Luke. Bunny holds the title of “Medical Alert Service Animal.”

“A service animal, per the Americans with Disabilities Act, is a dog that is trained to complete at least one task to mitigate someone’s disability,” explains Chambers. “A therapy animal goes through specific training to comfort individuals in hospitals, nursing homes, or schools, while service dogs are specifically trained for one person, for their disability.” In this case, the person with the disability is Chambers.

“[Bunny] was initially trained in psychiatric services, PTSD, and panic attack alert. Through her training she also started

doing migraine awareness and cardiac alert. She can let me know twenty minutes before a migraine happens and she can tell if my heart rate is too high,” reports Chambers of Bunny’s abilities. According to Chambers, Bunny is highly accurate.

“The first time she alerted me, I was in the gym with kids. She started jumping on me, so I sat down and she lay across my lap. When I checked my heart rate, it was up 140,” says Chambers. Bunny senses a potential medical episode using her sense of smell. Swabs of the inside of a handler’s mouth are often used to train the service dogs. These are called, “scent alerts.” A slight change in the scent coming from the handler can be a service dog’s cue to take action. Though she is mainly utilized as a support for Chambers, students also benefit from Bunny’s presence within the building.

“Occasionally, we use Bunny as motivation for some of our kids in the Life Skills Program. We allow them to read to Bunny or take a break next to

her bed,” says Chambers. “There are times when a kid might be close to a meltdown, and it can help if they just go and sit by her.” Chambers has found a positive response to Bunny not only from students, but also from staff and administrators, particularly because finding work with service animals can sometime prove to be a challenge. Chambers and Bunny experienced issues finding accommodations in previous work environments, including retail outlets and even another school district. Chambers reports that the Baldwin City School District has welcomed Bunny with open arms. “Having a dog that can help with so much is really special. I love to watch how much other people learn and grow from having a service dog around.”

From bulldogs to golden doodles to labradors, it’s safe to assume that all dogs hold a special place in the heart of the Baldwin City School District.

Let’s Go Dawgs!

HIDDEN GEMS

AROUND BALDWIN CITY

Sift through Baldwin City and you will soon end up with a handful of skilled and ambitious people, noteworthy items, and remarkable tales. The next four pages are brimming with a few we unearthed.

Story by Monica Brovont, Jeff Hill & Jenni Fish

Emma Pratt and her two pooches, Jack (front) and Oliver (back) wave from a fishing bank at Douglas State Fishing Lake.

EMMA PRATT

Counterpoise (CP) Dog Training

“We always had dogs,” Emma begins. “My dad trained, showed, and bred dogs for a long time. He taught me the basics of training.” When her adopted puppy exhibited troubling behavior, she took him through behavior modification training. Her success sparked an interest in training dogs professionally. Working under the guidance of a licensed behaviorist expanded her experience and knowledge. Emma’s business opened in 2021, and her first client remains her favorite success. The client was wheelchair bound and could no longer walk his overreactive dog, a detriment to the dog’s health and a frustration for him. After training with Emma, they enjoy their outings, and the dog is happier and healthier. “My mom printed the client’s review and put it on the fridge,” she laughs. Emma employs a training method that caters to individual clients and enables owners to effectively communicate with their dogs. “I work in tandem with my dog Jack,” she says. “He’s a levelheaded, well-trained dog and is especially perfect for working with aggressive or fearful dogs. He functions as a neutral party and comes to almost every session.” Emma has helped over fifty dogs in the past two years and hopes to expand. “I want to expand it to only half my time during the work week,” she explains. “With fewer clientele, I can make it more personal.” MB

Quayle Bible Collection

518 Eighth Street (Baker Campus)

Bishop William Alfred Quayle was a Manx immigrant, President of Baker University, Bishop of the Methodist Episcopal Church, author, and bibliophile. He willed his remarkable book collection to Baker University which is located in the Spencer Wing of Collins Library. Grown to exceed 1,000 texts, it includes a 13thcentury illuminated manuscript, clay tablets from Ur (2000 BC), a leaf of the Gutenberg Bible (1456), and two original 1622 King James Bibles, one of which graced the cover of National Geographic (2011). The collection attracts visitors worldwide and requests for photos and scans. MB

Group Fitness

www.baldwinrec.org

Thanks to the Baldwin City Recreation Commission, group fitness is availble in Baldwin City. Whether you are dancing the stress away with Zumba or getting your butt kicked by Echo Endecott in one of her group fitness classes, check the rec’s website for the group fitness schedule. JF

Scott Braden

Mini Golf at The Lodge

502 Ames (Hwy 56)

Sometimes it feels like there is nothing to do in Baldwin City! But did you know that you can take the family mini golfing right here in town?! Tucked in behind The Lodge on Highway 56 rests a cute mini golf course with animal figures as obstacles.

Scott Braden is one of many laborers who care for Baldwin City’s flora. His diligence in watering and feeding the many flower beds, hanging baskets, and flowerpots keeps the plants blooming and fresh through the heat of summer. He’s also responsible for painting the photogenic street art during downtown events. MB JF

Cost: $2/person

Complimentary for The Lodge guests.

Free mini golf with any purchase at the shops

“I work in tandem with my dog Jack,. He’s a levelheaded, welltrained dog and is especially perfect for working with aggressive or fearful dogs.”

Photograph courtesy of (opposite) Keifer Haplin, (right) Quayle Bible Collection, Echo Endecott and Keara Torkelson

ANDEE PARKS

As a young adult, Ande Parks made a decision that comic books weren’t just something he enjoyed as a child, but something he would turn into a career. He took a job delivering pizzas while he worked on his art. He sought feedback and even approached editors directly. His persistence paid off and has led to steady work in the industry. Ande is most proud of his work on Green Arrow. Film director Kevin Smith wrote the comic so it received a lot of attention. “It was the comic that changed my career forever.” Ande later published a graphic novel Capote In Kansas. “I was probably a more natural writer than artist,” Ande said. “It just took me a while to realize it.”

Ande has served two stints on the USD #348 school board. Ande, a Baker professor’s husband from a family of educators, found serving on the school board a natural fit. This year marks his thirteenth and final year on the board. He also loves golf and can be found on the links at the Baldwin City Golf Course. He serves on the BGA board working to preserve the course for the community’s recreational benefit. JH

Mike & Donna Curran

Mike and Donna Curran have impacted the lives of thousands of Baldwin kids. Mike has taught math at Baldwin High School for 41 years, as well as coaching and teaching drivers education. At the same time, Donna has run a licensed daycare for the last 38 years. As if that weren’t enough, it’s their behind-the-scenes work that contributes to one of Baldwin’s greatest gems!

Their involvement with the Maple Leaf Festival Committee helps make Baldwin the place to be that third weekend in October. Donna joined 23 years ago and has served as Chair, Vice Chair, and currently as Chair of the booth committee, overseeing 350 vendor booths. “We cut back on vendors ten years ago,” Donna said, “but there have been big crowds ever since we came back after cancelling in 2020.” Not to be left out, Mike joined the committee 8 years ago and has co-chaired the committee for the last 5 years. “His favorite part is Sunday morning, watching the sun come up before all the craziness starts,” Donna said, “but I love Sunday evening after everything is done and cleaned up.” She is thankful for the Boy Scouts, who are responsible for the cleaning.. JH

Baker Copy Shop

Nestled in the back of the Bookstore in the Union on Baker campus, the Baker Mail and Copy Center is an amenity not every resident of Baldwin City is aware of.

Kelly Garrison, a resident herself, has been manning the desk of the print shop for 22 years. With great rates and even greater service, the Baker Mail and Copy Center is a true Gem of Baldwin City. JF

The Art Cart

www.theartcartstudio.com

Just off the beaten path, with a Wellsville address, The Art Cart is a unique outdoor children’s art studio. Focusing on process art, The Art Cart uses a child-led approach to create, play, and imagine. It is amazing to see what children can do. They are dedicated to allowing children to freely CREATE art they love, PLAY during sensory-based groups, and IMAGINE up anything they want with the materials provided. JF

Kelly Garrison

Photograph courtesy of Andee Parks and Donna Curran

A variety of coffees at Baldwin City Made

707 8th Street

Dana Mullis, owner of Great Plains Promo and Baldwin City Made, partnered with Z’s Divine Espresso to create Baldwin City-themed coffee beans: Santa Fe Trail (light roast), Baldwin City’s Daily Grind (medium and dark roast blend), and Black Jack (dark roast). MB

The Wings at El Patron

CHRIS ORTIZ

Chris Ortiz’s intrigue with photography was generated and nurtured as a child by his photographer stepfather. Chris graduated from Baker University with a degree in Art History and from Savannah College of Art Design for photography.

“When Covid hit, I wasn’t really doing anything,” Chris says, “Nick Spacey, an old friend of mine, was editor of The Pitch. I asked if they were interested in a story on small town KS and how Covid affected it.” A year after the successful article, he offered to photograph for the publication. In two years, he has shot nearly 100 concerts including Garth Brooks, The Foo Fighters, Dwight Yoakam, Carlos Santana, Machine Gun Kelly, Jonas Brothers, Mötley Crüe,

Thundercat, and Allison Krauss. He was the sole photographer allowed to capture Alicia Keys’ concert at Starlight, and Carrie Underwood asked a month in advance if he would photograph her show. “It’s a huge variety,” he acknowledges, “but I think that’s what helps keep me sane. It allows me to perfect my craft because it doesn’t pigeonhole me into a specific style of music.”

Chris says concert photography has been compared to combat photography. Typically, photographers are confined to a pocketsized space and allowed to photograph the first three songs only. Photographers vie for an ideal spot, looking to capture the show’s defining shot while contending with other variables such as lighting, jostling from the audience, and a moving target.

Chris will present a life-sized gallery in January 2024 at the Cider Gallery. “You’ll be looking at these Hall of Fame musicians close up and personal, at a vantage point the average concert goer isn’t able to see,” he explains. MB

711 8th Street

El Patron is not only known for their great service, but their menu is bursting at the seams with traditional-style Mexican food we all know and love. But hear me out…have you tried THE WINGS?! Yes, I said it, THE WINGS! Hidden right there on the first page of the menu, under Appetizers, hides a delicacy you didn’t even know existed. The wings are covered in a very red, looks like it will burn my face off sauce, but that can come on the side. Next time you head to El Patron, make sure to order the wings! JF

KEN WAGNER

Ken Wagner and his family moved to Baldwin 25 years ago to open Heritage Tractor, a John Deere dealership that quickly established itself as a pillar in the business community. He credits his dealership’s customer-centered strategy for its success. “If you want to succeed in business you have to remain in lockstep and listen to your customers,” he said. “We buckled down and provided good customer service. Without that, we wouldn’t have been able to branch out.” Branch out, they have. Heritage Tractor has expanded to include 21 stores scattered across Kansas, Missouri, and Arkansas.

Ken recently retired from Heritage Tractor this spring after 25 years at the helm, but he doesn’t plan to slow down. He was recently named chairman for the American Royal and is excited to lead that organization as it breaks ground on its massive new location in Kansas City, KS. He takes on this new venture as the American Royal approaches its 125-year anniversary, and he looks forward to positioning it for the future. “It’s a great honor,” Ken said. “Agriculture is such a big part of the Kansas economy, and agricultural education is something I’m really passionate about.” JH

Coal Creek Library

Vinland, Kansas

Anna Soule and Martha Cutter, daughters of pioneer families, witnessed the savage conflict of Bleeding Kansas. During this bloodstained, volatile era, they instigated the establishment of a library for the “moral, social, and intellectual improvement of its members.” In 1859, its first year of operation, 104 books were purchased and the collection grew from there. This effort of two teenaged visionaries is now the oldest, continuously operating library west of the Mississippi. The library resided in homes and the Grange Hall until a building was constructed in the spring of 1900. This building, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, recently underwent significant structural repairs. This was made possible by a 2020 Heritage Trust Fund grant from the Kansas Historical Society and donations from supporters who provided matching funds. Due to ongoing renovations, the library is not currently open to the public. MB

ZOE CHAMBERS

The foundation for Zoe’s love of horses began before she remembers. “My dad was a bull rider when he was younger,” she says. “He told me Trail Boss bedtime stories.” Her parents surprised her with a horse on her sixth birthday, and she started rodeo. Zoe focuses on goat tying and break away roping learned from clinics, her dad, and people around her, and competes for the Kansas High School Rodeo Association. In Jr. High, she placed sixth at nationals, competing against 48 states and four countries. One of the youngest competitors in the high school category last year, she placed in the top thirty.

Your Personal Jeweler

715 8th Street

The Town Galleria in downtown Baldwin City is a gem in itself, but did you know that you can work directly with Mike and Gee to customize your own jewlery? Whether you are looking for a gift or planning to tie the knot, Your Personal Jeweler is your one stop shop for affordable engagement rings and wedding bands and more. JF

In 2019 Zoe offered horse lessons which included caring for horses, western riding, and rodeo events. What started with one child has grown to eight students. Her gentle ‘co-instructor,’ Lady, possesses finetuned instincts. “She’ll go at the speed of whoever is riding her,” Zoe says. “It’s sweet. The neighbors have a little boy with Downs Syndrome. He gets out all the time and ends up in the pasture. She loves him and just sits there.”

“Zoe has always had an entrepreneurial spirit,” her mother says. “Even before kindergarten, she bugged me, asking how she could make money. It’s natural for her to run her own business. She manages it all herself.”

Zoe plans to teach until college. “I want to rodeo in college and get scholarships. If all goes well, and I have some good accomplishments and college national finals, then I could apply to coach college rodeo.” MB

Photograph courtesy of Chris Ortiz, (right) Ken Wagner, Coal Creek Library and Zoe Chambers

FEATURED EVENT ICE CREAM SOCIAL

The 2023 Last Day of School Ice Cream Social was truly one for the kids! Rain may have pushed the serving line inside of the Lumberyard Arts Center, but it didn’t stop our community of ice cream-lovers from coming out to celebrate the last day of school! Filled with bubbles, chalk, games, tie dye. and 30 gallons of ice cream, we considered it a huge success.

A special thanks to Potter’s Homeschool Collective, Baldwin City Made, Baldwin City Recreation Commission, The Whole Nine Yards, Baldwin City Chamber of Commerce, Baldwin City Libaray, and all of the sponsors.

Photograph by Keara Torkelson