Hometown healthcare happens in Baldwin City.
When you or your family need exceptional healthcare, find it in your own backyard!
The professionals at LMH Health Primary Care have served the Baldwin City community since 2003. And, they are supported by specialists at LMH Health in Lawrence to address specific conditions.
LMH Health Primary Care—hometown healthcare experts connected to a network dedicated to being your partner for lifelong health.
406 Ames Street Baldwin City, KS 785-505-5404
Choose your primary care partner today at lmh.org/primary-care.
Gabe and Katelyn Spurgeon, with their three children Grayson, Thomas, and Olivia at South Baldwin Farms
Kevin E. Hughes, MD
Jen Schweda, APRN
Bonnie J. Cramer, MD
A BALDWIN CITY PUBLICATION
Emersyn
a den Mason Julie
New Publishing Dates!
A huge thank you to Justin and Julie Hoffman for welcoming us onto your property for this chilly photo shoot adventure. Your family brought warmth to the cold, and we loved capturing these moments!
This snowy photo of the Hoffman family, beautifully captured by Keara Torkelson, was originally intended to be our cover photo. We felt incredibly lucky to get such a
fun, wintry shot right here in Kansas where the weather is unpredictable, and planning a photoshoot with so many moving parts can be nearly impossible.
We have updated our schedule, and The Maple will now be published in March and September which better reflects the rhythm of our community and the seasons. While we had hoped to feature a snow-covered scene
on this issue’s cover, it just didn’t suit the new timing. We’re excited about this shift in schedule and look forward to sharing stories that feel perfectly scheduled with each issue.
As always, The Maple remains free and will continue to be directly mailed to every household in the 66006 zip code.
-The Maple team
Photograph by Keara Torkelson
Justin 'THE'Mr.Hoffman
ISSUE #07
letter from the editor
Winter always throws me out of sorts. It starts slow, drags on and ends so harshly. With one final roar, it’s finally gone. And it’s back to business as usual with sunny 70° days. This issue ebbed and flowed with Winter. Progress was made and then halted and finally it burst into reality with a colorful, frenzied bang with many changes and updates made last minute. That’s often how great art is made though, and I consider The Maple to be a work of art. Being able to weave such colorful images and stories together into one tapestry takes incredible skill and leaves me in awe. This issue is another beautiful work of art that I loved seeing come to life!
Kayla Kohn
Photo Editor + Kayla Kohn Photography kaylakohnphotography@gmail.com
I hope you thoroughly enjoy this seventh issue of The Maple! It’s a celebration of the good and beautiful things about Baldwin City. It’s worth noting that appreciating the good doesn’t equal ignoring the ‘bad’. Sometimes good things are possible because a difficult thing happened. Often good things are achieved through difficulty. Staying positive means seeing the good alongside the challenges and being thankful for it and hopeful because of it. This issue is a picture of good outcomes fueled by hard work or preceding challenges, and hopefully it encourages us all to notice and appreciate the beauty in our neighbors and community.
Monica Brovont Editor monica@baldwinmaple.com
letter from the
publisher
Both Kayla and Monica share some truly thoughtful reflections about this issue. Simply follow the Table of Contents to help navigate this amazing issue. As for me, instead of discussing this issue, I’m taking a slight detour to focus on something different: Community.
Community — that’s a group of people who interact and support one another, often within a shared place, organization, or network. Now, just because we share the same zip code doesn’t mean we’ll always see eye to eye. But one thing we can all strive for? Kindness.
Lately, there’s been a bit of a negative cloud hanging overhead, and I’m disheartened by how much of it looms over our own community. We’re better than that! It’s time for us to lean in, truly listen to one another, and work toward making this a place we’re all proud to call home. Honest conversations, a little patience, compromise, and plenty of kindness can go a long way.
I know, I know — this might feel a bit unexpected in a publication that’s usually all about celebration and good vibes. But sometimes, a little heart-to-heart is just as important. So here’s to doing better, together!
Jenni Fish
Publisher/Graphic Designer
Owner of Design-o-Saur & The Maple products
jenni@baldwinmaple.com
letter from the photo editor
THE MAPLE CONTRIBUTORS
STAFF
PUBLISHER
Jenni Fish jenni@baldwinmaple.com
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Monica Brovont monica@baldwinmaple.com
PHOTO EDITOR
Kayla Kohn kaylakohnphotography@gmail.com
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Echo Endecott
DESIGN/LAYOUT
Jenni Fish
CONTRIBUTORS WRITERS
Joanna Emig
Jessi Gerber
Jackie Hostetler
Ilene Kimsey
Lynn Meador
Angela Robb
PHOTOGRAPHERS
Sarah Beth Houser
Kayla Kohn
Frank Perez Pitts Photography
Keara Torkelson
COPY EDITORS
Lynn Meador
Dana Mullis
Lumberyard Arts Center
The
Design-o-Saur,
The Fun Starts Here
A newly renovated space brings games, gatherings, and great times
Hoggin' the Spotlight
Finding joy, laughter, and a little chaos in a farm full of furry and four-legged friends
Stitching Gratitude: Honoring Local Veterans with Handmade Quilts
Photograph by Frank Perez
Junk The drawer
Baldwin City Gambino's 785-553-3979
721 Eighth St. Baldwin City, KS 66006
Hours: Mon-Thurs: 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Fri-Sat: 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun: 11:30am-8pm
WORK BY TRENARY'S TREE SERVICE
Trenary Tree Service doesn’t just rise to the occasion—they climb it! Jim & Desira' Franke witnessed this when the crew safely removed one of the largest cottonwoods in town last fall. From carefully managing branches to giving wildlife time to relocate, Trenary went above and beyond. Thanks to their work, the Frankes and their neighbors can rest easy. Hats off to Trenary for looking out for both the community and its critters!
Baldwin’s own GreyGarden has just released a brand-new EP, bringing fresh energy to the local music scene. The band features Cael Harris on keys, Chris Elliott on rhythm guitar and vocals, Ty Harris on lead guitar, and Henry Parks on drums. Don’t miss the chance to support this talented local group and hear their latest music!
Calzone Cravings Gambino's
If you haven’t tried the calzones at Gambino’s yet, what are you waiting for? These golden, cheesy pockets of perfection are stuffed with all the good stuff—gooey mozzarella, your favorite toppings, and that signature crispy-yet-chewy crust. But here’s my pro tip: order an extra marinara sauce! Trust me, you’ll want plenty for dipping. Whether you go classic or build your own masterpiece, this is one meal that never disappoints. Go ahead, treat yourself—you won’t regret it!
Introducing SUNDAE FUNDAY!
This year, The Maple and BCK United are teaming up to put a fresh spin on the beloved Last Day of School Ice Cream Social. Enjoy FREE ice cream sundaes, karaoke, activities, and—for the first time ever—a Rubik’s Cube Competition! Then, cap off the evening with a concert hosted by BCK United featuring Baldwin’s own GreyGarden.
12 spotlight: USD 348
Baldwin City School District 715 Chapel, Baldwin City, KS (785) 594-2721 www.usd348.com
Dear Baldwin Families,
2025 is off to an interesting start and has created opportunities for many memories. We continue to appreciate the great support from the Baldwin community. It is truly an honor to serve your students and families.
The months ahead will be very exciting as construction will begin on the bond projects approved by our community last spring. Below is some information on our tentative timeline shared with us by Loyd Builders, our construction management firm.
• The first project to break ground will be our parking lot shortly after the last day of school. The bid process for this started around March 17, with a tentative construction start date of May 27. The parking lot and new entrances
are scheduled for completion for the start of school this fall.
• The construction timeline will begin with the bid process starting around May 15. Construction of the CTE facility is tentatively scheduled to start around July 28. The goal is to work on the exterior edition during the 2025-2026 school year. During the summer of 2026, the completion of work to the interior/ adjoining spaces is scheduled to occur. The goal is to have the facility completed by the start of the 2026-2027 school year.
of the school year will be filled with many great memories for your students and families. Thank you for allowing us to play a part in those memories.
Respectfully,
Baldwin continues to be a special place. We look forward to the coming months, as our students complete what has been a great school year. These final weeks
IN THIS ISSUE!
Get ready to step into the fairy tale world of Shrek the Musical! This issue of The Maple highlights the beloved production. Check out the behind-the-scenes look at the cast, crew, and the magic that makes this show a must-see!
Shrek the Musical took the spotlight once again, winning "Best Community Event" at the Baldwin City Chamber Awards! This production captured hearts with its talent, energy, and community spirit, proving that fairy tales—and local theater—bring people together in the best way. ... AND THAT’S NOT ALL
BEST COMMUNITY EVENT
Mark DodgeSuperintendent, Baldwin USD 348 #BaldwinBuilt
Photographs by Frank Perez
We’veupdated ourlook!
has always been a place where stories come to life. The library itself has a new story to tell with a stunning new mural and a fresh logo that reflect its mission of community and belonging.
Local artist Katee Smith, owner of The Barefoot Builder LLC, led the creation of a vibrant new mural at the library. With help from Girl Scout Troops #3735 and #4025 and book title suggestions from staff and library board members, the artwork showcases creativity, community, and a love for reading.
13 spotlight: LIBRARY
Baldwin City Library
800 7th St, Baldwin City, KS (785) 594-3411
baldwin.mykansaslibrary.org
ONGOING EVENTS AT THE LIBRARY:
Weekly
Wednesday:
• StoryTime • Obie Hour
Thursday:
• Bullpup Club 3rd – 5th Grades
• Bulldog Club 6th – 12th Grades
• Game Time (for adults – Bridge. No experience necessary!)
Monthly
• After School Fun K – 2nd Grade
• Tech Time • Satuday StoryTime
• Craft Your Stress Away • Best Movie Nite
• Just Food’s Mobile Food Pantry
• VA Rep Jeff answers VA-related questions
Quarterly
• Not Your Typical Book Club • AuthorTalk
The Baldwin City Library offers a Seed Library, providing free vegetable, herb, and flower seeds—no library card required. Seeds are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Stop by and start growing today!
As library visitors step inside, they’re greeted by vibrant colors, inspiring imagery, and the feeling that they truly belong. The new mural isn’t just decoration—it’s a testament to the community spirit that keeps the library thriving.
800 7th St, Baldwin City KS (785) 594-3411 www.baldwincitylibrary.org
Hours: Mon.-Thurs. 10-7 Fri. 10-5, Sat. 10-2
Letter from our Director:
Stop by and see the updates for yourself—the library is ready for its next chapter, and you’re always welcome to be a part of it.
As I’m coming up on my first anniversary as your Director of the Baldwin City Public Library, we’re busy wrapping up another great Summer Library Program But we still have so many more events for children, teens, and adults going on now and into the fall
The library unveiled a brand-new logo, a refreshed emblem of its commitment to serving Baldwin City. Whether a resident is picking up a favorite novel, attending a program, or simply seeking a quiet place to read, the message is clear: wherever you go, you always belong at the library.
Our Friends of the Library BookTalk series resumes in September with ghost stories! Not the truly scary kind, but enough to get you ready for Halloween
BIKE RENTALS
Local authors Gerard Arantowicz and John Musgrave will be a part of AuthorTalk Storyteller Danny McMillen will be telling stories for Our Local History series And Melinda Hipple will be giving a two-part Haiku lesson We also have our regular programs: Craft Away Your Stress for adults and the Bulldog Afterschool Program and Teen Nite and so much more I encourage you to check out our events page on our website or follow us on Facebook to keep up with everything we’re doing
In partnership with First United Methodist Church, the library will offer free 24-hour bike rentals starting late spring.
• Ages 12 & up
• Library card required
I want to thank the patrons, volunteers, staff, Friends of the Library, Board of Trustees, and the community for all of your support It’s been a wonderful first year serving you, and I look forward to seeing you soon in the library!
• Helmets encouraged
• Waiver must be signed Stay tuned for launch details!
• Our Local History Series (in partnership with the Santa Fe Trail Historical Society of DCKS)
2024 Library Board of Trustees
Reguar Programs:
Program, Teen Nite
Upcoming:
7/29 -8/14 Beyond Selfies & Snapshots photography series with Wayne Jarvis 6-7:30 pm
8/24 AuthorTalk with Gerard Arantowicz 12:30-1:30 pm
8/28 & 9/11 Haiku series with Melinda Hipple 5:30-7:30 pm
9/18 Our Local History with Danny McMillen 6-7:00 pm 11/6 AuthorTalk with John Musgrave 6-7:00 pm
Enjoy
spotlight: BUSINESS
Baldwin City Chamber of Commerce
719 High St, Baldwin City, KS (785) 594-3200
www.baldwincitychamber.com director@baldwincitychamber.com
CHAMBER UPDATES
The Baldwin City Chamber of Commerce gathered on February 27 to celebrate the people and businesses that make our community thrive. It was a night of recognition, gratitude, and excitement for the future.
The Chamber extends a heartfelt thank you to Jeannette Blackmar as she completes her term on the board. A former Chamber Director and Chair of the Design Committee, Jeannette’s insight and leadership have left a lasting impact. Though her board service ends, her influence remains—just holler, and we’ll ZIP ZAP ZOOM to support her!
Stepping into the role is Douglas Spradlin, owner of Standard Grooming Supply. His enthusiasm and fresh ideas will bring new energy to the Design Committee, and the Chamber is excited to see his impact. Here’s to another year of growth and success in Baldwin City!
CHAMBER NETWORKING
Events are the 2nd Thursday of each month. Check out our website calendar for details about each event.
Winners listed in bold/underline
Best Community Event
Finalists: Hometown Halloween
Independence Day Celebration
Rainbow Preschool
Bingo Night
Other Nominees: Baldwin City Public
Library's Summer Reading Program
Be Well Baldwin City
BHS Musical
Maple Leaf Gravel Grind
Photos with SantaCody Anno State Farm
Smoke on the Bricks
Best Newcomer
Finalists:
Baldwin City
Creative Arts
Gambino’s Pizza
Standard Grooming Supply
Other Nominees: Lovely Flower Co
Prairie Psychiatric
Best in Education –USD #348
Finalists: Autumn Weiss
BHS Musical
Justin Hoffman
Other Nominees: Bailee Bones
Brant Brittingham
Grace Duddy
Katrina Jacobsen
Kelli Haeffner
Mike Curran
Stuff the Bus 2024Cody Anno State Farm
Randee Kallas
Rebecca Todd
Best in Education –
Baker University
Finalists: Dr. Frank Perez
Library & Museum
Faculty and Staff
Searls Speaker Series
Other Nominees: Baker Literary Salon Chemistry Department
Dr. Darcy Russell
Dr. Jackie DillonChemistry Dept
History, Culture & Society Dept
Mass Media/Art Dept
Tamara SlankardEnglish Dept
Friendship Award Finalists:
Homestead Kitchen & Bakery
Lumberyard Arts Center
The Maple
Other Nominees: Adopt-A-Child
Arrowhead Hardware
Baldwin City Chamber of Commerce
Baldwin City Made
Baldwin City CommissionRecreation
BITS Midwest
Prairie Psychiatric
Rainbow Preschool
Rodrock Chiropractic
Susan & Brian Pitts
The Town Galleria
Innovative Marketing Award
Finalists:
Bailey Rice-Beach - Lumberyard Arts Center
Baldwin City Public Library
The Maple
Other Nominees:
Baldwin CIty Beer Co
Baldwin City Chamber of Commerce
BCRC - Kristin Walters USD #348
Local Heroes Award
Finalists:
Baldwin City Fire Department
Baldwin Education Foundation
Echo Endecott
Other Nominees: Clint Epperly
Dave Hill
Frank Perez
Lumberyard Arts Center
Marta Jardon
Mike Pattrick
Susie Martin
Business of the Year
Finalists: Baldwin City Recreation Commission
Mid America Bank
Om Grown Yoga & Wellness Collective
Other Nominees:
Arrowhead Hardware
Baldwin City Beer Co
Baldwin City Market
Baldwin City Public Library
Rainbow Preschool
Rodrock Chiropractic
16 spotlight: RECREATION
Baldwin City Recreation Commission
712 Chapel St., Baldwin City, KS (785) 594-3670
www.baldwinrec.org
GetReadyfor aSummerofFun
From classic cars and BBQ to fireworks and summer camp adventures, BCRC has something for everyone. Mark your calendars and join us for exciting events, sports leagues, and aquatics programs all season long. Check out what’s coming up!
Baseball, Softball, T-ball, Little Sluggers, Spring Cornhole
DEADLINE: April 4
Fall Soccer, Volleyball, Flag Football
INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION
Baldwin City Golf Course
Live music, food trucks, Kid's Zone, and the best fireworks show in the region!
SMOKE ON THE BRICKS
Downtown Baldwin City
AUGUST 8
TASTE OF BALDWIN CITY
REGISTRATION OPENS: JUNE 23
POOL PASSES AND SWIM LESSONS REGISTRATION
AVAILABLE APRIL 1 POOL OPENS MONDAY, MAY 26
Calling all car fanatics— get ready for a revvedup day at the 3rd annual Thunder on the Bricks! Bring the family and enjoy live music, food trucks, and, of course, the coolest cars around. Enter your own vehicle for $25 and see if you can't snag one of our coveted trophies!
6-10 p.m.: Live music featuring 80’s cover band, The Zeros AUGUST 9 BBQ CONTEST
Police Dept. Baldwin City
Dear Baldwin City Community,
On behalf of the men and women of Baldwin City Police Department, I want to personally thank you for the opportunity to lead your law enforcement agency. The partnership between the community and law enforcement agency is crucial to any close knit community. Baldwin City Police Department is committed to ensuring the safety of each and every person in Baldwin City.
We are dedicated to a proactive approach to modern policing. In today’s world, a lot of first responder resources have a strong emphasis on the mental and psychological well-being of the citizens they protect, and our department strives to maintain the highest level of training in these areas.
Baldwin City Police Department has been fortunate enough to employ very committed professionals. I personally believe our agency is one of the best in the country, and we work very hard to make you all proud. We do not take your trust for granted, and we hold ourselves to the highest standards of ethics and professionalism to maintain that trust.
Effectiveness of any law enforcement department is dependent on community engagement, and we are grateful to serve a highly engaged community. We’re very proud to wear the badge of this city you’ve entrusted to us, and we look forward to serving for many successful years. Thank you all so much for your continued support.
Mike Pattrick, BCPD Police Chief
$10.50 for each 70% charge
at the Department’s charging station, roughly equivalent to a full tank of gas
Safety Seat Check
LIBRARY READING
Chief Pattrick enjoys taking a turn reading at the Library's Wednesday morning Storytime a few times a year.
We partner with Safe Kids Douglas County, USD 348, and the Douglas County Sheriff's Department to provide FREE car seat checks by certified Child Passenger Safety Technicians (CPSTs). The next Car Seat Check Lane event is April 23rd, from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m., at Baldwin Intermediate Center.
A new electric vehicle is set to join the police fleet in town. Alongside the Tesla that has been in service for the past year and a half, the department will soon add a Chevy Blazer EV PPV (Police Pursuit Vehicle)."
DEA takeback
The Federal Drug Enforcement Administration hosts “takeback” events where citizens are encouraged to bring leftover prescription drugs to drop off in safe boxes for disposal. BCPD participates in these events twice per year, once in the spring and once in the fall. The department also has a dropbox available anytime the office area is open, usually 8-5, M-F. The next takeback event is scheduled for Saturday, April 26, from 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
USD 348 PARTNERSHIP
BCPD is working with USD 348 to regularly train teachers and staff members for active threat scenarios, among other emergency situations.
BALDWIN
CREATIVE EXPERIENCES
spoken word
APRIL 11
An evening of original poetry & prose by the literary talents in our community who will move you. Free with suggested donation
Holiday
NOVEMBER 29
Celebrating the performing arts talents of Baldwin City who spread the joy of the season. Ticketed event
19 spotlight: ART Lumberyard Arts Center
718 High St, Baldwin City, KS (785) 594-3186
www.lumberyardartscenter.org
Hours: Wed.-Fri., 1-5 and Sat., 10-12
BC PLAYERS YOUTH THEATRE
JUNE 14
Enjoy the culminating live performance of our two-week youth theatre program. Free with suggested donation
BC Fashion Show
SEPTEMBER 6
Showcasing and featuring apparel creativity from local talent and businesses. Ticketed event
Ugly Sweater fun run
DECEMBER 13
Get ready for the first-ever Ugly Sweater 5K in Baldwin City, KS! Celebrating Baldwin City as the Quilt Capital of Kansas. Ticketed event
Starts Fun the Here
A newly renovated space brings games, gatherings, and great times to Baldwin City!
Story by Lynn Meador
Photographs by Kayla Kohn & Sarah Beth Houser
21 THE CITY
Baldwin City Community Center
Baldwin City just got a whole lot more exciting with the grand opening of its brand-new Community Center on Chapel Street! Since its launch last October, this historic Works Project Administration building, newly renovated and managed by the local recreation commission, has quickly become the go-to hub for fun, fitness, and friendship.
A Buzzing Hub for All Ages
Kicking off official public activities on November 1, 2024, the Community Center has transformed into a lively space where residents of all ages come together. Whether you're sinking three-pointers on the basketball court, challenging friends on the PS5, or testing your skills with state-of-the-art sports simulators, there’s something for everyone.
Just ask Oliver Leiste, a local sixth grader whose after-school routine has been completely redefined. “Before, I mostly just came home,” he says. “I didn’t get to see my friends as much. Now, my social life is awesome.” Oliver and his friends enjoy playing basketball, football, and soccer—both in the gym and on hightech simulators. His advice? “If you’re social, definitely go for open court. But even if you’re not, you’re still going to have fun! There’s so much to do.”
Activities for Every Interest
The Community Center offers a packed schedule to cater to different interests and age groups:
• Open Rec – All ages are welcome, with kids under 5th grade requiring an adult.
• Play Your Way – After-school recreation for sixth grade and up (younger kids can join with parental supervision).
• Walking Time – A designated period for those looking to log their daily steps.
• Maple Buds – A special playtime for little ones (walking age to five years old) that encourages movement and creativity.
• Pickleball Courts – Two courts with gear available for use.
• The best part? All these activities are completely free! The center even provides basketballs, volleyballs, and pickleball gear at no charge. However, all children participating in BCRC activities, including Maple Buds, must be registered in the BCRC system to attend.
Rental Options for Private Fun
Looking to host an event or enjoy some exclusive playtime? The Community Center offers a variety of rental options:
• Entire facility – $125/hr.
• Gym rental (for basketball, volleyball, batting cage, or pickleball) – $50/hr (up to 2 hours).
• Executive meeting room – $50/hr.
• Rec Room (includes golf/soccer simulator and PS5) – $30/hr. (Note: The golf simulator is available only for rentals, while the soccer simulator and PS5 can be used during Open Rec and Play Your Way.)
More Than Just a Place to Play
The Community Center is more than sports and games—it’s where friendships grow, families bond, and residents stay active. Whether you’re an athlete, gamer, or just need a place to unwind, it’s become a vital part of Baldwin City life for community members of all ages.
Visit the Community Center’s site for schedules and rentals. Don’t miss out!
DAIS FOR LOCAL GOVERNMENT
The new Community Center now features a fully equipped dais for official meetings and monthly court. Complete with microphones, cameras, and TV screens, it enables live streaming of city discussions, keeping Baldwin City residents informed and engaged.
(Left) Isaiah Sappington takes a shot against Oliver Leiste during Open Gym; (Right, Top) Becky McMillen presents to the City Council; (Right, Bottom) Eva Sappington plays with a friend at Maple Buds.
Photographs by Sarah Beth Houser
the Spotlight
Finding joy, laughter, and a little chaos in a farm full of furry and four-legged friends
Story by Angela Robb Photographs by Keara Torkelson
Smart Pigs
Just over a year ago, the Smart family’s world imploded when father and husband, Michael, suffered an injury in an accident that left him paralyzed. While their house was undergoing renovations to enable better access for him, Michael, wife Cassidy, and five children moved in with her parents on their farm. To say it was a full house would be an understatement. All their animals, except the goats, moved with them which included horses, cows, donkeys, pigs, rabbits, llamas, cats, dogs, and one mule. “It was chaos,” Cassidy says, “but we made it all work!”
grains, romaine lettuce, and other vegetables.
The Juliana breed of pig is a mini or teacup pig that is light gray in color with black spots. They live 10-15 years and can weigh between 40-80 pounds full-grown. They are intelligent and can be litter box trained if living inside. When living outside, they go to the same place far away from their bedding and food. They are low maintenance, inexpensive to keep, affectionate, and entertaining.
23 FURBABIES Smart Pigs
RABBITS
HOLLAND LOP
• Originally from the Netherlands. A mix of French and English Lop-Eared rabbits and the Netherland Dwarf rabbit Smallest of the lop-eared rabbits
• Lives 10-12 years
• Weighs 2-4 pounds, measures 4-5 inches tall and 10-12 inches long. Almost as wide as they are tall.
On a whim during the summer of 2024, Cassidy picked up a Kune Kune (pronounced KOO-nee KOO-nee) pig from a breeder. Cassidy immediately fell in love with Penelope, the new pig, and called the breeder that night to ask if her sister, Petunia, could also join their family. Penelope loves people and belly rubs and is constantly foraging for her next snack. Smart Petunia catches on to things quickly and brings the family joy. Her spunky spirit makes her a delight to watch when she is playing.
Their third and youngest pig, named Porky, is a Juliana. He loves cuddles and possesses the sweetest, endearing personality. He was nervous around his sisters at first. Over time, he transformed from a pig who hid, to one who frolics with his sisters and entertains the entire family. Bananas are the favorite treat of all three, and they often will sit on command for one. They usually follow their human mama around outside, hoping for attention and a snack!
The Kune Kune are sociable animals and great pets that live about 15-20 years. Their hair grows thicker in winter and comes in various colors including cream, ginger, black, brown, and white. Like Penelope and Petunia, their coats can be spotted. Some of them have little wattles on the sides of their faces. They are medium-sized pigs, and the sows (females) weigh 100 – 200 pounds. Not known for rooting and destroying land, they are herbivores and enjoy eating vegetation such as grass, hay,
Cassidy also keeps about fifteen pet rabbits, who are mostly laid back and sweet. Cassidy decided to raise both Holland Lops and Lionheads as they are known to make great pets and often live indoors. Some of their names are Cocoa, Hopper, Callie, and Pumpkin. The kids love playing and snuggling with them and helping care for them. The rabbits require food, hay, water, warmth, and protection from the elements. They are prone to overheating in the summer, so the family gives them frozen water bottles to lay on and fans to help keep them cool.
All the Smart kids help with the animals. They each have their favorites, but they think the pigs and rabbits are the most fun to be around. Although it felt great to move back home and return to their own space, during their time away, they still found ways to enjoy life, their family, and their animals and embrace the chaos!
Emersyn, Braylee, Weston, and Ayla Smart enjoy time together outdoors with their rabbits.
• Wide variety of colors Grooming: Needs brushed weekly and nails clipped monthly Needs hay and chew toys to keep teeth in proper alignment and shape
• Docile, gentle, affectionate nature Makes an excellent pet and companion
LIONHEAD
• Developed in France and Belgium. A product of breeding a Swiss Fox rabbit with a Netherland Dwarf rabbit.
• Lives 7-9 years Weighs 2.5-3.5 pounds and measures 8-10 inches long.
• Classified as either a single maned Lionhead (a mane encircles the head when young but usually diminishes as they age) or a double maned Lionhead with a thick mane for life and sometimes longer fur around their flanks and back legs
• Can require more grooming than other rabbit breeds
• Needs plenty of hay and chew toys to keep teeth from becoming overgrown
• Intelligent, good natured, energetic, and social
• Can be potty trained
• Makes fun pets!
Email: monica@baldwinmaple.com
MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY
MEMBERS HIGHLIGHTED IN BLUE ARE PARTNERS OR ADVERTISERS OF THE MAPLE.
AGRICULTURE/AGRITOURISM
AD ASTRA ALPACAS
168 E 1700 Rd., Baldwin City 785-594-6767 grampaca168@gmail.com adastraalpacas.com
HORNBERGER FARMS
620-380-1392 hornbergerfarms@gmail.com
VESECKY FAMILY FARMS
785-766-4580 wfreedom02@gmail.com veseckyfamilyfarms.com
VINLAND VALLEY NURSERY
1606 N. 600 Rd., Baldwin City 785-594-2966 amyalbright@vinlandvalleynursery.com vinlandvalleynursery.com
ARCHITECTURAL & ENGINEERING
LANDPLAN ENGINEERING, PA 1310 Wakarusa Dr., Ste. 100, Lawrence 785-843-7530 jessn@landplan-pa.com landplan-pa.com
ARTS AND CULTURE
BALDWIN CITY CREATIVE ARTS
711 High St., Baldwin City 785-717-9222 angela@bccreativearts.com bccreativearts.com
LUMBERYARD ARTS CENTER
718 High St., Baldwin City
785-594-3186 director@lumberyardartscenter.org lumberyardartscenter.org
ASSISTED LIVING SERVICES
SUNFLOWER CARE HOMES OF BALDWIN CITY
424 Washington St., Baldwin City 785-594-2603 ext. 101 amy@sunflowercarehomes.com sunflowercarehomes.com
VINTAGE PARK AT BALDWIN CITY
321 Crimson Ave., Baldwin City 785-594-4255 vintageparkassistedliving.com
AUTOMOTIVE
GREGG BRUCE AUTO & PERFORMANCE
601 High St., Baldwin City 785-594-4088 greggbruceauto@gmail.com greggbruceauto.com
CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE
BALDWIN CITY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
719 High St., Baldwin City 785-594-3200 director@baldwincitychamber.com baldwincitychamber.com
EUDORA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
P.O. Box 725, Eudora admin@eudorakansaschamber.com eudorakansaschamber.com
GARDNER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
109 E Main St., Gardner 913-856-6464 info@gardnerchamber.com gardnerchamber.com
LAWRENCE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
President/CEO: Bonnie Lowe 718 New Hampshire St., Lawrence 785-865-4411
blowe@lawrencechamber.com lawrencechamber.com
OTTAWA AREA
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
109 E. 2nd St., Ottawa 785-242-1000 chamber@ottawakansas.org ottawakansas.org
BALDWIN CITY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
719 High St, Baldwin City KS (785) 594-3200
www.baldwincitychamber.com jenni@baldwincitychamber.com
WELLSVILLE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
P.O. Box 472, Wellsville 785-816-0406 wellsvillechamberofcommerce@ hotmail.com wellsvillechamber.org
CHURCHES
IVES CHAPEL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
1018 Miami St., Baldwin City 785-594-6555 iveschapelumc.org
WORDEN CORNERSTONE CHURCH
294 E. 900 Rd., Baldwin City 785-594-7598 office@wordencornerstone.com wordencornerstone.com
CLUBS/NONPROFIT ORGANIZATIONS
BALDWIN CITY BUSINESS & PROFESSIONAL WOMEN
Debra Marsh, President P.O. Box 503, Baldwin City 785-212-0273
BALDWIN CITY LIONS CLUB P.O. Box 543, Baldwin City hazejl@hotmail.com
BALDWIN CITY ROTARY CLUB
P.O. Box 385, Baldwin City 785-766-5849 amy@livingspacellc.com
BUILDING EXPERIENCES SUPPORT TEAM 720-201-3932 burnham robin@yahoo.com
DOUGLAS COUNTY COMMUNITY FOUNDATION
900 Mass. St., Ste. 406, Lawrence 785-843-8727 chipblaser@dccfoundation.org dccfoundation.org
FRIENDS OF THE BALDWIN CITY LIBRARY
P.O. Box 565, Baldwin City 785-594-3411 friendsofbaldwinlibrary@gmail.com baldwin.mykansaslibrary.org/friends
GOODLIFE’S MIDNIGHT FARM
2084 N. 600 Road, Baldwin City 785-727-9049 kayleeclark@mygoodlife.org midnight-farm.org
HEADQUARTERS KANSAS
2110 Delaware St., Lawrence Office: 785-841-9900
Local Crisis Line: 785-841-2345
Suicide and Crisis Line (call or text): 9-8-8 hopeb@hqkansas.org hqkansas.org
SANTE FE HISTORICAL SOCIETY, INC.
P.O. Box 379, Baldwin City santafetraildouglas.org
SENIOR RESOURCE CENTER FOR DOUGLAS COUNTY
745 Vermont St., Lawrence 785-842-0543 contact@yourSRC.org yoursrc.org
THE WILLOW DOMESTIC VIOLENCE CENTER
1920 Moodie Rd., Lawrence 785-331-2034
24/7 Help Line 785-843-3333 admin@willowdvcenter.org willowdvcenter.org
WATKINS MUSEUM OF HISTORY
Douglas County Historical Society 1047 Massachusetts St., Lawrence 785-841-4109 watkinsmuseum.org
CONSULTING CAREER ADVANTAGE RESUMES
P.O. Box 532, Baldwin City 785-865-8528
ashley@careeradvantageresumes.com careeradvantageresumes.com
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
BALDWIN CITY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION
P.O. Box 4, Baldwin City 785-766-1306 dhill@mid-americabank.com
EDUCATION
BAKER UNIVERSITY
615 Dearborn St., Baldwin City 785-594-8308 office@bakeru.edu bakeru.edu
BALDWIN CITY UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT 348 715 Chapel St., Baldwin City 785-594-2721 usd348.com
BALDWIN EDUCATION FOUNDATION
P.O. Box 67, Baldwin City 785-594-2721 ext. 111 bef@usd348.com baldwineducationfoundation.org
BALDWIN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL - INTERMEDIATE CENTER
100 Bullpup Ln., Baldwin City 785-594-2446 usd348.com/schools/besic
BALDWIN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL – PRIMARY CENTER
500 Lawrence St., Baldwin City 785-594-2444 usd348.com/schools/bespc
BALDWIN HIGH SCHOOL
415 Eisenhower St., Baldwin City 785-594-2725 usd348.com/schools/bhs
BALDWIN JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL
400 Eisenhower St., Baldwin City 785-594-2448 usd346.com/schools/bjhs
THE DWAYNE PEASLEE TECHNICAL TRAINING CENTER, INC. 2920 Haskell Ave., Ste. 100, Lawrence 785-856-1801 info@peasleetech.org peasleetech.org
EAST CENTRAL KANSAS COOPERATIVE IN EDUCATION (ECKCE)
600 High St., Baldwin City
Lee Hanson, Director lhanson@eckce.com
Sara Hoepner, Asst Director shoepner@eckce.com 785-594-2737 eckce.com
THE RAINBOW EXPERIENCE PRESCHOOL
115 6th St, Baldwin City 785-594-2223
rainbowexperiencebaldwin@yahoo.com rainbowexperiencepreschool.org
EMERGENCY SERVICES
MIDWEST ROAD RESCUE
1-800-475-9458
info@midwestroadrescue.com midwestroadrescue.com
EVENTS FACILITIES
BALDWIN CITY LIBRARY
800 7th St., Baldwin City 785-594-3411 director@baldwin.lib.ks.us baldwin.mykansaslibrary.org
BALDWIN GOLF ASSOCIATION
1102 Main St., Baldwin City 785-979-9491
jake@baldwinstatebank.com baldwincitygolf.com
LUMBERYARD ARTS CENTER
718 High St., Baldwin City 785-594-3186 director@lumberyardartscenter.org lumberyardartscenter.org
THE LIGHT CENTER
1542 Woodson Rd., Baldwin City 785-255-4583 info@lightcenter.info lightcenter.info
TIMBER’S EDGE PARTY
BARN & EVENT SPACE 1558 N. 600th Rd., Baldwin City 913-669-6424
booking@timbersedge.com timbersedge.com
FINANCIAL SERVICES
ABC SERVICES 620-629-7332 ronda widener@yahoo.com
BALDWIN STATE BANK
721 High St. & 112 8th St., Baldwin City 785-594-6421 baldwinstatebank.com
HALLMARK HOME MORTGAGE
913-233-9176 rstoll@1hallmark.com ryanstollmortgage.com
JC GRASON
716 8th St., Baldwin City 785-594-1054 baldwin@jcgrason.com jcgrason.com
KANSAS STATE BANK
602 Ames St., Baldwin City 785-594-7500 mykansasstatebank.com
MID AMERICA BANK
802 Ames St., Baldwin City 785-594-2100 jhill@mid-americabank.com mid-americabank.com
NEW FRONTIER TAX & BUSINESS SERVICES
810 High St., Ste. #3, Baldwin City 785-594-1204 newfrontiertbs.com
RCB BANK
3300 W. 6th St., Lawrence 785-865-1533 jared.todd@rcbbank.bank rcbbank.bank
FOOD AND DRINK
BALDWIN CITY BEER COMPANY
520 High St., Baldwin City 785-594-3535 baldwincitybeer@gmail.com
EL PATRON
711 8th St., Baldwin City 785-594-2711 elpatronbaldwintogo.com
GAMBINO’S PIZZA
721 8th St., Baldwin City 785-553-3979 gambinospizza.com/locations/ baldwin-city-ks
HOMESTEAD KITCHEN AND BAKERY
719 8th St., Baldwin City 785-766-3442 lori@homestead.cafe homestead.cafe
PIZZA HUT
130 Hwy 56, Baldwin City 785-594-3230 phbaldwincity@pizzamgmt.com pizzahut.com
THE BULLPEN
811 8th St., Baldwin City 785-594-1170
THE CORNER LIQUOR STORE, LLC
310 Ames St., Baldwin City 785-594-3555
UPLIFT BALDWIN
112 6th St., Baldwin City 785-424-0466 upliftcoffeeco@gmail.com upliftcoffeeshop.com
WOODEN SPOKE
309 Ames St., Baldwin City 785-594-2222 woodenrestaurant@gmail.com
Z & M TWISTED VINES
24305 Loring Rd., Lawrence 531-600-8187 zmtwistedvines@gmail.com zmtwistedwines.com
FUNERAL SERVICES
LAMB-ROBERTS-PRICE FUNERAL HOME
712 9th St., Baldwin City 785-594-3644
ericprice.lrp@gmail.com lamb-roberts.com
PRAIRIE CITY CEMETERY ASSOCIATION
207 East 1600 Rd., Baldwin City 785-594-3094 prairiecity.cem@gmail.com
HAIR SERVICES
SEVENTH STREET HAIR
809 7th St., Baldwin City 785-594-7144
STANDARD GROOMING SUPPLY
616 High St., Baldwin City 773-807-7192
douglas@standardgroomingsupply.com standardgroomingsupply.com
HEALTH/WELLNESS
AUBURN PHARMACY
400 Ames St., Baldwin City 785-594-0340
baldwin@auburnpharmacies.com auburnpharmacies.com/baldwin-city-ks
BALDWIN CITY DENTAL
Dr. Chris Leiszler
414 Ames St., Baldwin City 785-594-9834
cleiszlerdds@sunflower.com baldwincitydental.com
BALDWIN CITY FITNESS
814 High St., Baldwin City 785-594-1245 baldwincityfitness@gmail.com baldwincityfitness.com
BERT NASH COMMUNITY MENTAL HEALTH CENTER
200 Maine St., Ste. A, Lawrence 785-843-9192 dsmith@bertnash.org bertnash.org
DOUGLAS COUNTY VISITING NURSES ASSOC.
200 Maine St., Ste. C, Lawrence 785-843-3738 andrea.bos@kansasvna.org kansasvna.org
LMH HEALTH
325 Maine St., Lawrence 785-505-5000 lmh.org
OMGROWN YOGA AND WELLNESS COLLECTIVE
816 High Street, Baldwin City 785-816-0207 omgrownyogacollective@gmail.com omgyc.com
PK THERAPY LLC
811 Grove St., Baldwin City 816-868-8909 peggy@pktherapyot.com pktherapyot.com
RODROCK CHIROPRACTIC
603 Ames St., Baldwin City 785-594-4894 chirorock.com
THE LIGHT CENTER
1542 Woodson Rd., Baldwin City 785-255-4583 info@lightcenter.info lightcenter.info
HOME IMPROVEMENT/ CONSTRUCTION
HOMETOWN CONSTRUCTION 785, LLC
1403 9th St., Baldwin City 785-979-0043 hometownconstruction785@gmail.com hometownconstruction785.com
ONE CHOICE HEATING AND AC
785-393-9329 clint@onechoicehvac.com onechoicehvac.com
WHEATFIELD FLOORING
785-424-3696 wheatfieldflooring@gmail.com
INDIVIDUALS
BRUCE EVELAND
GERALD SANDEN
JIM WILSON
JOSH TEMPLE
KALEB HORNE
LINDA BALLINGER
ROGER BOYD
INSURANCE
A & D HEALTHCARE SOLUTIONS
Aleshka Haas 913-245-1253
ahaas@myhst.com
Dustin Haas 913-787-3041 dhaas@myhst.com
AMERICAN FAMILY INSURANCE
KIM HOWER & ASSOCIATES 913-649-2002 khower@amfam.com amfam.com/agents/kansas/overlandpark/kimberly-hower
CODY ANNO - STATE FARM
208 Baker St., Ste. A, Baldwin City 785-594-0270 cody@codyismyagent.com codyismyagent.com
FARM BUREAU FINANCIAL SERVICES
Kelly Neufeld, Agent 714 8th St., Baldwin City 785-594-1055
kelly.neufeld@fbfs.com kellyneufeld.fbfs.com
INTEGRITY MIDWEST INSURANCE LLC
3301 Clinton Parkway Ct., Lawrence 785-856-5100 clint@integritymw.com integritymidwestins.com
JARDON INSURANCE
705 8th St., Baldwin City 913-486-0061
galen@jardoninsurance.com jardoninsurance.com
INTERNET SERVICE PROVIDER CLEARWAVE FIBER
153 W. Warren St., Gardner 877-293-2973
april.cain@clearwavefiber.com clearwavefiber.com
MEDIACOM COMMUNICATIONS CORP
855-633-4226
mediacomcable.com
IT SERVICES
BENNETT BEAM
CONSULTING & MANAGEMENT
913-731-8525 jerry@bennettbeam.com bennettbeamconsulting.com
BITSMIDWEST INC.
705 High St., Baldwin City 785-424-6747 info@bitsmw.com bitsmw.com
LIBRARY
BALDWIN CITY PUBLIC LIBRARY
800 7th St., Baldwin City 785-594-3411 baldwinpl@baldwin.lib.ks.us baldwin.mykansaslibrary.org
LODGING ROOMS2STAY
703 9th St., Baldwin City 913-683-1758 cathenry.ch@gmail.com rms2stay.com
THE LIGHT CENTER
1542 Woodson Rd., Baldwin City 785-255-4583 info@lightcenter.info lightcenter.info
MANUFACTURING
CUSTOM MOBILE EQUIPMENT, INC.
439 E. High St., Baldwin City 785-594-7474 sales@versa-lift.com versa-lift.com
RICE PRECISION MANUFACTURING
401 E. High St., Baldwin City 785-766-4133 cheryl@rice-precision.com rice-precision.com
MEDIA/PRODUCTION/ PUBLISHING SUNFLOWER PUBLISHING MAGAZINES
1035 N. 3rd St., Lawrence 785-832-7264
jmorgan@sunflowerpub.com sunflowerpub.com
BALDWIN SPORTS LIVE 913-388-0837 baldwinsportslive@gmail.com varsitysportslive.com
DESIGN-O-SAUR jennimfish@gmail.com design-o-saur.com
FULLY PROMOTED
303 W. 11th St., Ste. B, Lawrence 785-856-5160
chad.dick@fullypromoted.com Fullypromoted.com/locations/Lawrence-ks
IMPERIUM PUBLISHING 316-833-6111 niki@imperiumpublishing.com imperiumpublishing.com
THE MAPLE jenni@baldwinmaple.com baldwinmaple.com
THE MAPLE WEEKLY jenni@baldwinmaple.com baldwinmaple.com
MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS
SANDROCK MUSIC COMPANY, LLC
1705 N. 600th Rd., Baldwin City 913-940-3766
info@sandrockmusic.com sandrockmusic.com
REAL ESTATE/RENTALS
BALDWIN CITY PROPERTY MANAGEMENT
785-813-1293 baldwincity4rent@gmail.com baldwincity4rent.com
BALDWIN RETIREMENT APARTMENT COMPLEX (BRAC)
1016 Orchard Lane, Baldwin City 785-594-6996
brac@housingforbaldwin.com housingforbaldwin.com
GOLD LEAF SENIOR LIVING
904 Ridge Rd., Baldwin City 785-766-7500 jhill@mid-americabank.com
LIVING SPACE, LLC
715 High St., Ste. A, Baldwin City 785-766-5849 amy@livingspacellc.com livingspacellc.om
REAL ESTATE FOUNDATIONS
COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE
Kirsten Flory
800 New Hampshire, Ste. 120, Lawrence 785-766-6568
kirsten@foundationscommercial.com foundationscommercial.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 Cir., Ste. 500, Lawrence 66049 lawrence@reecenichols.com lawrence.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 Robyn Elder 785-331-9898 robynelder@stephensre.com stephensre.com
RECREATION/ENTERTAINMENT BALDWIN CITY RECREATION COMMISSION 712 Chapel St., Baldwin City 785-594-3670 matt@baldwinrec.org baldwinrec.org
BALDWIN GOLF ASSOCIATION 1102 Main St., Baldwin City 785-979-9491 jake@baldwinstatebank.com baldwincitygolf.com
OTTAWA NORTHERN RAILROAD 1515 High St., Baldwin City 855-663-7625 gwen.riley@rockislandrail.com ottawanorthernrailroad.com
SHOPPING/RETAIL/GIFT
BALDWIN CITY MADE BY GREAT PLAINS PROMO 707 8th St., Baldwin City 785-594-5171 greatplainspromo@gmail.com baldwincitymade.com
BALDWIN FEED COMPANY
1600 High St., Baldwin City 785-594-3351 bfeed92@yahoo.com
BALDWIN WAX + WICK 785-766-3522 baldwinwaxwick@gmail.com
HERITAGE TRACTOR, INC.
915 Industrial Park Rd., Baldwin City 785-594-6486 cduft@heritagetractor.com heritagetractor.com
LOVELY FLOWER CO.
703 8th St., Baldwin City 785-251-0689 info@lovelyflowerco.com lovelyflowerco.com
QUILTERS’ PARADISE
713 8th St., Baldwin City 785-594-3477 quiltfabsupply@yahoo.com quiltingfabricsupply.com
SOLAR
SOLAR PLANET
890 E. 1600 Rd., Baldwin City 785-331-7510 jae@solarplanteinc.com solarplanetinc.com
STORAGE FACILITIES
3G SELF STORAGE
280 E. 1260 Rd., Baldwin City 785-764-4661 3gselfstorage@gmail.com
OUT WEST STORAGE
1704 High St., Baldwin City 785-418-2770 gatorhorsedee66@gmail.com
UTILITIES
CITY OF BALDWIN CITY, KANSAS 803 8th St., Baldwin City 785-594-6427 baldwincity.org
VETERINARY SERVICES
BALDWIN VETERINARY CLINIC
412 Ames St., Baldwin City 785-594-5457 baldwinvetclinic@gmail.com petcare.vettersoftware.com/login
COMPANION ANIMAL HOSPITAL
504 Ames St., Baldwin City 785-594-2413 baldwincitycah@gmail.com
Quilts for Baldwin City Veterans
Sharon Vesecky, Angie Hightree, Karen Kohn, and Jo Cornelius showcase a freshly pieced quilt.
Quilts VETERANS to Honor
The national Quilts of Valor Foundation began in 2003 with a dream of Iowa Founder, Catherine Roberts, to share the message, ‘Quilts equal healing.’ Twelve Baldwin City quilters embraced this concept in 2015 and created a program which responds to local community needs. Since then, Quilts for Baldwin City Veterans has wrapped 116 local veterans in love and appreciation for their service. Each quilt is sewn from the heart by their members which currently include Karen Kohn, Sandy Ralston, Jo Cornelius, Sharon Vesecky, and Cathy Miles with Angie Hightree serving as photographer.
“Many of us have relatives who have or are serving in the military. We consider our quilt-making as taking care of family. Some veterans may hesitate to receive a quilt saying, ‘I didn’t fight in a war.’ The truth is that all who serve in the military gave up time away from family, whether stateside or overseas to serve our country,” Quilter Karen Kohn said.
During the first year of the program, Karen gathered veterans’ names from the American Legion. Lifelong Baldwin resident, Marvin Jardon, provided substantial help with identifying local military personnel. Quilts for Baldwin City Veterans presented seventeen quilts that first year. Many of the recipients
were World War II veterans. Finding local veterans is often a word-of-mouth endeavor. Current or former military personnel are encouraged to leave their names at Quilters’ Paradise.
Quilters’ Paradise supports the valor program by supplying batting and fabric at minimum cost and graciously doing the quilting. Owner, Sharon Vesecky, sews and donates three quilts a year to the program. The Quilts for Baldwin City Veterans group meets from January through October creating two to three quilts per month. Each quilter selects a pattern, fabric, and pieces their own quilts during their joint gatherings.
The annual November 11th presentation to veterans was first held at Baldwin Intermediate Center, then relocated to the Lumberyard Arts Center in 2021. The 2024 presentation welcomed veterans, families, and community members to honor fourteen recipients: Michael Oehlert, Air Force, received by his wife, Shellney; David Trowbridge, Marines and National Guard; Dexter Gratts, Army; David Crites, Army; Ruthie and Glenn Rodden, Army; Perry Fletcher, Army; Olon Olson, Marines; Adam Trybom, Marines; Janet Olson, Army; Charles Kriha, Army; Anna Lichtenberger, Marines; and unable to attend and accepted on his behalf was
COMMUNITY
Quilts for Baldwin City Veterans
Quilts
Story by Ilene Kimsey
Photographs by Kayla Kohn & Pitts Photography
Nick Lichtenberger, Marines. John Roller, Army will also be receiving a quilt.
In addition to the annual Veterans Day presentation, Quilts for Baldwin City Veterans has presented quilts at retirement, nursing, and memory care homes. In 2024, a valor quilt was part of the surprise 80th birthday celebration for Clarence Raymond Johnson, Army.
Just as the quilts are pieced together and
“Many of us have relatives who have or are serving in the military. We consider our quilt-making as taking care of family."
-Karen Kohn
unfolded with care, the many stories of each veteran are pieced together, and memories unveiled with a wide range of emotion. David Trowbridge served in the Marines and National Guard and receiving a quilt this year stirred up fond memories. “My Grandma taught me a little bit about quilting, growing up. I have an appreciation for all the stitching.
She had a rack set up in the living room and I’d go over and sit down and visit,” he recalls.
The Army brought local veterans, Ruth and Glenn Rodden together while serving in McGraw Kaserne, Munich, Germany. “It was an honor to be asked to receive a quilt,” Ruth stated. “I’m a quilter and I know it’s not an easy task. It takes time to raise funds, think of a design, and put the quilt together.
Glenn and I are honored.”
KAW VALLEY QUILTERS GUILD
Former quilt recipients, Lisa and Tom LaFountain, also met while serving in the National Guard. Lisa expressed that the ‘benevolence of Baldwin City’ is reflected in the Quilts for Veterans program.
“I was an Army Combat Engineer during the Korean War,” states Marvin Jardon. “Quilting has kind of been in our blood through Norma [his wife]. It was nice to get one for service and being a veteran. I have really cherished it.”
Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines 'valor' as “strength of mind or spirit that enables a person to encounter danger with firmness: personal bravery.” The thread of valor runs through the commitment of both the quilters and the veterans for serving community and country.
This quilt guild began their Valor Quilts program in 2024 and serves Douglas County and adjacent counties. They also contribute to making the quilts which are handed out each Veterans Day. Their members include: Liz Granberg-Jerome (pictured below, top left), Pat Couch, and Robin Bell. “I have a very strong inclination to do quilts for valor. It is an opportunity to express the gratitude for our freedom that means so much to me,” states Robin.
QUILTS VETERANS for
2024's event received funding through the Be Well Baldwin City grant program, but donations are always needed and greatly appreciated. They help Quilts for Baldwin City Veterans purchase fabric and supplies.
To donate or add names of current or former military personnel, please contact Sharon Vesecky at Quilters’ Paradise. 713 Eighth Street, Baldwin City, KS 66006 | 785-594-3477
Photographs by Pitts Photography
Banking on Family
How does one start a business while staying involved with their family? The answer is simple: combine the two into one. Dave Hill, owner and CEO of Mid America Bank, successfully put this into practice. Dave recalls his kids, Jeff, Jessica, and Julie, spending time in the bank after school from as early as second grade, completing homework and studying at any available desk until six in the evening. As they watched Dave and his wife, Pam, put in their time, work became second nature to them. The Hill children performed simple jobs such as collecting trash, organizing the storage room, and refilling supplies. As they grew older, they began to assist with filing, processing, and teller duties. Dave describes his children’s involvement at the bank during their early years as, “somewhat of a choice, somewhat expected.”
As Jeff approached college, he took classes that would allow him to work at the bank post-graduation, but his father advised him to work somewhere else for five years before becoming involved at Mid America. Jeff agreed and spent those five years as a bank examiner, becoming familiar with the rules and regulations that govern those entities. This experience gave him the tools to excel in his current position as president of Mid America Bank and its seven locations.
Jessica helped around the bank as she grew up but chose to pursue a career as a dentist. Her first role was as a janitor, cleaning the bank from the age of twelve through high school, before stepping into a teller position during college. Today, she works as the bank's event coordinator as well as overseeing remodeling and decorating projects at their
Lawrence and Baldwin City locations. She enjoys staying involved so she can, “join in the conversation a bit when all the family gets together.”
Julie, the youngest, also had a desire to work for her father at the bank and was met with the same advice as Jeff. She spent
three years at Commerce Bank in downtown Kansas City in the metro lending department, after which she joined Mid America Bank. She now oversees the market in Johnson County which comprises twenty-five percent of the business at
How Dave Hill built Mid America Bank with his children
(Left page) Olivia Johnson, Jessica Johnson, Emery Johnson, Dave Hill, Taylor Johnson, Pam Hill, Jeff Hill, Julie Dean, Lydia Dean, and Corey Dean gather for a family portrait; (right page) Pam and Dave Hill.
Story by Joanna Emig | Photographs by Kayla Kohn
Mid America Bank. Being involved in many different positions at the bank at a young age gave Julie a feel for how each part contributes to the whole. This understanding gives her an edge in her role as vice president of Mid America Bank. Julie says they strive to create a “warm, welcoming environment and treat people how we’d want to be treated.” This mindset has taken Mid America Bank from an $8 million to a $481 million business as the number one real estate lender in Douglas County.
Dave considers working with his children the “utmost privilege” and appreciates the interest and hard work they put into something he has spent his life building. Building this business was not without its challenges.The sheer amount of hours Dave poured into it in the beginning put some strain on the Hill family, but being married to a farmer's daughter, who is used to hard work and long hours, made a difference. However, the hours Dave spent at the bank did not keep him from being intentional about supporting his kids’ activities while they were in school.
Even today, his work doesn’t end when he leaves the bank. His evenings often consist of revamping policies with KU basketball playing in the background until 10 p.m. or later and getting up the next day to do it all over again. He certainly doesn’t begrudge it. “I’m not working for any other reason than I enjoy it,” he remarks.To him, that is success. He realizes that he wouldn’t have put so much into his job if his kids weren’t also invested.
He hopes that his efforts at the bank reduce the hours required from his kids. “I’m her father first, her employer second,” Dave says in regard to Julie. As a mom, her duties extend beyond the bank, and he makes certain she knows that “the most important job [she] has is raising children.”
Dave Hill’s connection to the Baldwin City community dates back to 1905, as his family lived in the area. He grew up in Eudora but moved to Baldwin City in 1995 and started a mortgage business. After buying the bank with the help of a few partners, Dave says Baldwin City was the logical home for it as he already knew the people and was confident the market could support his new enterprise.
Mid America Bank is truly a family business. However, Dave recognizes that it’s not only the Hill family who made Mid America Bank the business it has become. “It’s not just one or two people. It’s really about a great team,” he says. Dave considers his employees family too, a mindset that overflows into how he and their team conduct business. Dave has no intention of ever selling or of retiring anytime soon. He notes with a chuckle that he can’t imagine putting his kids out of a job, and after working for himself, he wouldn’t want to work for anyone else. As a community staple, Mid America Bank is a business that puts family first, whether that is Dave’s own family, employees, or customers. It is a business built on hard work and family values, a combination that makes it successful.
Gardner
Norton [Coming Soon]
Baldwin City
Eudora
Lawrence Palco
Wellsville
Construction begins on the Baldwin City Mid America Bank branch in 2001, with little surrounding development at the time.
craze Cornhole
Story by Jessi Gerber | Photographs by Kayla Kohn
The Baldwin City Baggers and Their Cornhole Community
Cornhole, also known as "bags," was the most played sport by Americans in 2022, according to an Ipsos poll. This isn’t surprising, given its accessibility to all ages and skill levels. Whether indoors or outdoors, cornhole’s versatility makes it one of the favorite sports to play.
There's a bit of a naming controversy: is it "bags" or "cornhole"? In Baldwin City, either name works, but "Baldwin City Baggers" certainly has a better ring to it than "Baldwin City Cornholers." Baldwin City has its own cornhole league, thanks to Dustin Moore and Brandon Reese. About three years ago, Moore and Reese founded Baldwin City Baggers. They participated in the Baldwin City Recreation Commission’s summer cornhole league but the guys wanted to play more. They traveled to nearby cities like Ottawa, Lawrence and Paola to get their cornhole fix outside of the Baldwin City's summer league. They noticed there was enough interest in Baldwin City and decided to establish the league. The Baldwin City Baggers league meets on Mondays at the Baldwin City Beer Company, the day chosen to avoid conflicts with other local leagues.
If you haven’t been there on a Monday night to see the Baggers playing, the league is set up in the event space at the Beer Company. Moore and Reese arrive at the Beer Company around 5:15 p.m. to start setting-up for the league night, which starts at 6:30 p.m. I joined them and helped haul in three sets of boards (made by Moore), three scoring-towers and the tablets. As a casual summer player, I was impressed with the setup. The scoring towers have cup holders and a spot for the tablet. The tablet is used to keep score, which is run through an app called Scoreholio. The Baggers use Scoreholio to keep track of the league. The app is also used for cornhole tournaments.
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"We’ve had players from other clubs say that they love playing here because it’s so much fun. They appreciate the laid-back atmosphere and the lack of pressure.”
If so, here is how the league works: Typically, it is an eight-week league with the ninth week featuring the end-of-league tournament. It costs $10 per week to play, with an additional $5 league fee for your first week. Each week, you'll play six games with a different partner in each game. Moore made sure to let me know that everyone is welcome to join. They enjoy having new players and it is just a great opportunity to get together and enjoy community and cornhole.
-Dustin Moore
The league is funded by the league fees and sponsorships, which helped purchase the tablets. The BC Baggers have two sponsors, Bully Boardz and Reese Lawncare, the businesses of Moore and Reese. Moore made the boards for the league and explained that while the boards are all the same, the bags bring variation to the game.
Baldwin City Baggers
(Left page) Dustin Moore and Brandon Reese represent the Baldwin City Baggers, a local cornhole league bringing competitive fun to the community; (above) Angela Bird and Michael Espinosa throw bags.
When I asked about tournaments, Moore said most tournaments are set up for fundraisers. The fundraisers are for different organizations, youth sports teams or local causes. In 2022, the Baldwin City Baggers set up their first tournament. The tournament was dedicated to helping the Baldwin City community. They chose to support USD 348 by purchasing books for the schools. “We aren’t looking to make money, we just want a chance to give back to the community,” Moore said. Tournaments have various formats from single elimination to round robin. Teams can be set by blind draw, or random, or set teams. The blind draw provides opportunities for players of different skills to compete together.
Moore and Reese saw a need in Baldwin and have done a great job fulfilling it. “There are so many people that didn’t know that we existed,” Moore said. “We are just trying to show the community who we are and what we offer.” Watching the league night, I found the players to be a fun and friendly bunch. I got to talk to some of the spectators and meet new people. I even saw Baldwin Junior High’s science teacher, Mr. Webb! The league is more than a sports league, it’s a chance to socialize and build connections within the community.
The success of the Baldwin City Baggers is a testament to the dedication of Moore
and Reese, as well as the participation from the players. It’s an inclusive environment where everyone is welcome. "We’ve had players from other clubs say that they love playing here because it’s so much fun. They appreciate the laid-back atmosphere and the lack of pressure,” Moore said. If you come to just hang out, you will see for yourself how fun it is.
So, if you are looking to pick up a new sport or a way to meet new people, consider joining the Baldwin City Baggers. Whether you are a seasoned player or a beginner, you’ll find a welcoming community on Monday nights. If you want more information about the league, you can email bcbaggers01@gmail.com.
(Left) Custom scoring towers; (Right) Dustin Moore and Stan Johanning.
HAPPILY AFTER Ogre
Behind the Scenes of Baldwin High’s Shrek the Musical
Story by Jackie Hostetler |
Simply put, the fall 2024 Baldwin High School production of Shrek the Musical was a hit.
Throughout the show's three-night run, over 1,800 students and community members were treated to a lively performance, completely selling out the Baldwin Performing Arts Center which seats over 600 people and is located on the shared USD 348 junior high and high school campus. The magic of the theatre filled the Performing Arts Center and brought audiences to their feet in standing ovations each night – a testament to the hard work of students and staff.
Photographs by Frank Perez
Director Katie Jacobsen has been the driving force behind the high school musicals for eight years. Putting on a musical is no small task, but Jacobsen also holds multiple roles (teaching music at Baldwin Intermediate Center and guitar at Baldwin High School) while managing every aspect of the production. Music director Rachel Naughtin, choreographer Louisa Holland, and technical director Jake Dutton round out the production team - each sharing their expertise as they bring the show to life. Countless parents and community volunteers also lend support from styling wigs, to organizing concessions, to helping with costumes and sets.
The intricate process of creating costumes and sets is a crucial behind-the-scenes aspect of each production. Jacobsen's approach to costuming begins by first utilizing the school's existing costume storage, then carefully ordering and modifying pieces to bring her creative vision to life.
She had specific ideas for Shrek characters like the Gingerbread Man and Lord Farquaad. She ordered base pieces that were transformed by dedicated volunteers into the final costumes. This method is not new to Jacobsen. In previous productions such as Beauty and the Beast, she meticulously researched costume rentals and even consulted with companies about creating special pieces that would fit both the budget and the show's artistic vision. For Cinderella, she went as far as collaborating with a fashion designer friend to create a custom, transforming dress.
Set design presents its own unique challenges. The process typically begins over the summer with extensive planning meetings to map out the desired look and feel. Before rehearsals commence, the stage is taped to match the planned set designs which allows students to practice with the correct spacing while set pieces are being constructed. Technical director Jake Dutton built the set pieces for Shrek. Jacobsen and a team of volunteers painted them and added detail to create the final, stunning result.
The Performing Arts Center's shared space presents one of the most significant challenges in set design. The venue hosts multiple events, which means the set often needs moved back or even partially disassembled during rehearsals to accommodate other concerts and performances. The time crunch between concluding these events and the production's first night adds an extra layer of complexity to the design and building process.
Considering all the logistics and many moving parts, it’s clear to see that Jacobsen's role goes beyond directing, with her students always at the forefront. She creates an immersive experience for the cast, even bringing in an "obnoxious audience member" to help kids practice performing under various distractions. "It's about giving them an experience," says Jacobsen. And
what an experience it is!
Jacobsen selects the musical, with a little input from students of course. "We take a lot into consideration when choosing a show," she explains. The choice of Shrek the Musical came from student interest and the right mix of talent. The production involved seventy students from the junior high and high schools, each bringing their unique skills to the stage. From seventh
graders working tech to upperclassmen taking lead roles, the musical offered something for everyone.
The program has a carefully designed approach to student involvement. Seventh graders can only participate in tech crew, giving them a foundational understanding of theatrical production. Eighth graders can join the ensemble or continue with
BEHIND the SCENES
CREATIVE FUNDRAISING
tech, while ninth through twelfth graders can audition for any role. This structured approach ensures that students learn the many facets of theater production, from behind-the-scenes work to starring roles.
Samantha Pittman, a junior who played Princess Fiona, has been a part of the musical programs since fifth grade. "My favorite part is how everybody's so different, but we all come together to make such a great show," says Pittman.
Camden Cox, who played Donkey, also enjoys the camaraderie between cast and crew. "I like how close the cast is, and everybody can just kind of joke with each other," he shares.
Liam Perry, a senior in the role of the Big Bad Wolf, appreciates the deeper connections as well. "You make a lot of good memories during rehearsals," he notes.
Junior Amelie Altmeyer, an international student from near Hamburg, Germany, found a place on the tech crew. "I like to hang out with all the kids and just have fun together," says Altmeyer.
The diversity of students’ talents extends beyond roles and responsibilities. Students like Pittman juggle multiple activities, from volleyball and a cappella choir to student council. Cox recently finished a
successful soccer season, helping the team secure third place at the state level.
"I'm getting to school at probably 7:00 or 7:30 [in the morning] most days. I'm going to school all day until 3:30 and then go straight out to soccer practice. Most days, I was coming straight to play practice after soccer until about 8:30 or 9:00," says Cox of his schedule.
Rehearsals for the production are nothing short of intense—four days a week from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. over an eight-week period. The hard work and long hours are worth the experience. The 2024 musical became more than just a school play. With all three shows selling out, it's clear the community loves what the students are doing. "There's such a buzz around it," Jacobsen says proudly.
For those who might have missed it, Shrek the Musical told the story of an ogre who discovers that true love goes beyond appearances. Shrek and Fiona's journey from unlikely companions to true love captivated audiences, mixing humor, heart, and a bit of fairy-tale magic.
The standing ovations speak volumes. Staff and students went beyond performing a show—they created an experience that brought the entire community together, proving that high school theater is about so
For Baldwin High School's theater program, this means a mix of concession sales and show-specific novelty items. The program has evolved its fundraising strategy over the years, transforming from simple snack sales to interactive audience experiences.
"We're always looking for fresh ideas that make our shows special," says Director Katie Jacobsen.
What started with concession sales has grown to include themed merchandise like interactive roses for Beauty and the Beast, and ogre ears for Shrek the Musical. Each year brings a new opportunity to engage the community and support the theater program, with fundraising strategies as dynamic as the performances themselves.
Purchasing Shrek ears or merchandise granted fans the chance to go on stage to meet and take pictures with the cast. Photographed below, the publisher’s kiddos are proudly cashing in their ears!
Samantha Pittman
Camden Cox
Liam Perry
Amelie Altmeyer
BALDW I N CITY
811 EIGHTH STREET
hours Mon-Tues: 11am-12am Wed-Sat: 11am-2am Sun: 11am-8pm
