SENIORS TURN PARKING LOT INTO COLORFUL CANVAS AT ANNUAL BOOSTER CLUB FUNDRAISER
This past weekend, Baldwin High School’s Booster Club once again hosted its popular Senior Parking Lot Painting fundraiser, turning a blank stretch of asphalt into a lively gallery of artwork, creativity, and Bulldog pride. The event took place on Sunday, August 24, and brought together seniors, their families, and the community for an evening that has quickly become one of the school’s most cherished traditions.
From 5–8 p.m., the parking lot buzzed with activity as students sketched, rolled, and brushed their approved designs onto
their designated spots. Each senior had submitted artwork in advance to ensure all designs reflected the school’s values, and participants paid a modest fee that goes directly toward funding future Booster Club programs and student activities. The tradition offers a meaningful way for seniors to both celebrate their final year and support their school at the same time.
The event required each student to bring their own supplies, including the mandatory water-based exterior latex paint. That small logistical hurdle turned into an opportunity for camaraderie, as
classmates and families shared brushes, rollers, shade tents, coolers, and even design tips. The three-hour time limit added a fun sense of urgency, as students worked side by side to complete their masterpieces before the sun set. Parents, siblings, and friends gathered to cheer them on and help where needed, creating a true community atmosphere. By the end of the evening, the once plain parking lot had been completely transformed. Rows of parking spaces displayed a patchwork of bold colors and unique designs that reflected each
student’s personality and creativity. Some featured school pride, some included favorite quotes or hobbies, and others simply reflected a senior’s sense of humor. Together, the designs created a vibrant snapshot of the class as they embark on their final year at Baldwin High School.
The Senior Parking Lot Painting event has become more than just a fundraiser. It’s a celebration of individuality and a powerful reminder of the strong community ties that make Baldwin such a special place to grow up. The atmosphere throughout the evening reflected that spirit—students helped one another when paint ran low, families loaned supplies to neighboring spots, and everyone came together to cheer on the seniors as they put the finishing touches on their designs.
With each year, this tradition continues to grow, leaving behind not just painted parking spaces but lasting memories for seniors and their families. The colorful spots will brighten the school grounds throughout the year, standing as a visual reminder of the creativity, teamwork, and Bulldog spirit that define Baldwin High School. As the Booster Club looks ahead to future projects, the success of this event reinforces how meaningful and impactful community-driven traditions can be for students and the broader Baldwin community alike.
PLEASE NOTE: DUE TO LABOR DAY, NEXT WEEK’S EDITION OF THE NEWSPAPER WILL BE PUBLISHED ON THURS., SEPTEMBER 4.
Seniors at Baldwin High School turned their parking spots into colorful works of art during the annual Senior Parking Lot Painting fundraiser on Aug. 24, creating a vibrant display of school spirit and individuality.
Photograph by Bella Lusso Photography
CITY OF BALDWIN CITY
CITY OF BALDWIN CITY ORDINANCE ANNOUNCEMENTS
ORDINANCE NO. 1515
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER XIV, ARTICLE 1, SECTION 14-101 OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF BALDWIN CITY INCORPORATING THE STANDARD TRAFFIC ORDINANCE FOR KANSAS CITIES
WHEREAS, the “Standard Traffic Ordinance for Kansas Cities” published by the League of Kansas Municipalities has a 52nd Edition published in 2024.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE GOVERNING BODY OF THE CITY OF BALDWIN CITY, KANSAS, AS FOLLOWS:
Section 1. That Section 14-101, Incorporating Standard Traffic Ordinance be changed to read: “INCORPORATING STANDARD TRAFFIC ORDINANCE: There is hereby incorporated by reference for the purpose of regulating traffic within the corporate limits of the City of Baldwin City, Kansas, that certain standard traffic ordinance known as the “Standard Traffic Ordinance for Kansas Cities,” 2025 52nd Edition, prepared and published in book form by the League of Kansas Municipalities, Topeka, Kansas save and except such articles, sections,
ORDINANCE NO. 1516
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF BALDWIN CITY, KANSAS, AMENDING SECTION 11-101 (“INCORPORATING UNIFORM PUBLIC OFFENSE CODE”) OF ARTICLE 1 (“UNIFORM PUBLIC OFFENSE CODE”) OF CHAPTER XI (“PUBLIC OFFENSES”) OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF BALDWIN CITY
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the Governing Body of the City of Baldwin City, Kansas, as follows:
Section 1. That Section 11-101 of Article 1 (Uniform Offense Code), Chapter XI (Public Offenses) of the Code of the City of Baldwin City, Kansas be amended to read as follows:
“INCORPORATING UNIFORM PUBLIC OFFENSE CODE. There is hereby incorporated by reference for the purpose of regulating public offenses within the corporate limits of the City of Baldwin City, Kansas, that certain code known as the “Uniform Public Offense Code for Kansas Cities,” 41st Edition, (UPOC) prepared and published in book form by the League of Kansas
parts or portions as are hereafter omitted, deleted, modified or changed, such incorporation being authorized by K.S.A. 12-3009 through 12-3012, inclusive, as amended. No fewer than three copies of said standard ordinance shall be marked or stamped “Official Copy as Incorporated by the Code of the City of Baldwin City, Kansas,” with all sections or portions thereof intended to be omitted or changed clearly marked to show any such omission or change and to which shall be attached a copy of this section and filed with the city clerk to be open to inspection and available to the public at all reasonable hours.”
Section 2. This ordinance shall be in full force and effect from and after its passage by the City Council, its approval by the Mayor and its publication in the official city newspaper.
Passed by the City Council this _______ of _______________, 2025.
Casey Simoneau, Mayor ATTEST:
Amara M. Packard, City Clerk Approved as to Form:
Shaye Downing, City Attorney
Municipalities, Topeka, Kansas, save and except such articles, sections, parts or portions as are hereafter omitted, deleted, modified or changed. No fewer than three copies of said Uniform Public Offense Code shall be marked or stamped “Official Copy as incorporated by the Code of the City of Baldwin City, Kansas,” with all sections or portions thereof intended to be omitted or changed clearly marked to show any such omission or change and to which shall be attached a copy of this section, and filed with the city clerk to be open for inspection and available to the public at all reasonable hours.”
Section 2. This ordinance shall be in full force and effect from and after its passage by the City Council; its approval by the Mayor and its publication in the official city newspaper.
Passed by the City Council on this the day of , 2025.
Casey Simoneau, Mayor ATTEST:
Amara M. Packard, City Clerk
GOLF COURSE PARKING LOT CHIP AND SEAL WORK COMPLETED
On Monday, August 25, the Golf Course parking lot was temporarily closed while Bettis Asphalt completed the chip-and-seal process. This method applies a thin layer of asphalt followed by small rock chips, helping to seal cracks, protect the pavement, and extend the life of the surface. The parking lot reopened around 11 a.m. that same day.
This work followed several weeks of chip-andseal improvements across Baldwin City. Streets on the west side of town were also completed as part of the city’s 2025 road maintenance program. Crews will return in about 30 days to sweep excess rock and loose material, a normal step in the process to ensure smoother travel.
Residents are encouraged to use caution on these treated streets until the surface fully settles. More details about Baldwin City’s ongoing street maintenance and improvement projects are available on the city website.
CITY COUNCIL ADOPTS CHANGES FOLLOWING PUBLIC INPUT ON UTILITY RATES
After two public Community Forums earlier this month, Baldwin City’s City Council approved changes to electric rates to better align with community feedback and correct a discrepancy in the initial rate increase.
Residents began seeing updated utility rates last month, prompting concerns that were voiced directly to the Council. The community spoke, and Council listened, the adjustments reflect resident input while maintaining financial stability for the electric utility.
On July 15, 2025 (Ordinance 1513), the Council approved a residential rate increase targeted at 10% overall. The monthly meter fee—now called the “debt fee”—rose from $12 to $25. Electricity usage rates increased from $0.1400 to $0.1540 per kilowatt-hour (kWh).
On August 19, 2025 (Ordinance 1517), the Council identified and corrected a discrepancy in the earlier rate calculation. The debt fee remains $25 per meter, but the usage rate is now adjusted to $0.1411/kWh. This correction ensures residential customers are charged only the intended 10% revenue increase and will return any extra amount collected in July over the remainder of 2025.
City officials expressed appreciation for residents’ understanding as these updates are implemented, noting the changes are necessary to keep the electric utility financially stable while responding to community concerns.
COMMUNITY
CITY OF BALDWIN CITY ORDINANCE ANNOUNCEMENT
ORDINANCE NO. 1517
AN ORDINANCE REPEALING THE CURRENT ELECTRIC ENERGY RATES; ESTABLISHING NEW ELECTRIC ENERGY RATES FOR CUSTOMERS OF BALDWIN CITY’S MUNICIPAL ELECTRIC UTILITY; RENUMBERING SPECIFIC SECTIONS OF THE CITY CODE; ESTABLISHING A POWER COST ADJUSTMENT; REPEALING ORDINANCES IN CONFLICT; AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE
WHEREAS, the City of Baldwin City, Kansas, owns an electric utility system established to provide electric utility service to customers inside and outside the city limits; and
WHEREAS, Chapter XV, Article 2, of the Code of the City of Baldwin City, Kansas, provides for the provision and billing of electric service by the municipal electric utility; and
WHEREAS, the policies, fees and rates for installing and providing municipal electric utility services require updating from time to time to appropriately reflect the cost of providing such services; and
WHEREAS, revisions to the existing fees and rates for electric service are now necessary to reflect the current costs of providing service; and
WHEREAS, to be aligned with current best practices, the rates for electric service should include an automatic adjustment clause that will adjust electric service rates for changes in the cost to the municipal electric utility to purchase wholesale electric energy and fuel for electric generation.
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the Governing Body of the City of Baldwin City, Kansas, as follows:
Section 1. Repeal the existing sections 15-209 through 15218 of Chapter XV, Article 2 of the Code of the City of Baldwin City, Kansas, and replace those sections with the following new sections:
Section 15-209. RESIDENTIAL RATES. The rates for electric service to residential customers of the municipal electric utility are:
a) A monthly debt service fee of $25.00 per meter for customers inside the city limits and $25.00 per meter for customers outside the city limits, plus,
b) Effective August 1, 2025 usage, a monthly energy charge of $0.1411 per kilowatt hour of metered energy use for all residential class customers, the
c) A Power Cost Adjustment, as provided in section 15231, applied to all kilowatt-hours of metered energy use.
Section 15-210. BUSINESS RATES. The rates for electric service to business customers of the municipal electric utility, including offices, retail establishments and manufacturing enterprises, annual use is under 90,000 kilowatt-hours are:
a) A monthly debt service fee of $25.00 per meter for customers inside the city limits and $25.00 per meter for customers outside the city limits, plus
b) Effective with August 1, 2025 usage, a monthly energy charge of $0.1411 per kilowatt-hour of metered energy use for all business-class customers, then
c) A Power Cost Adjustment, as provided in section 15231, applied to all kilowatt-hours of metered energy use.
Section 15-211. COMMERCIAL RATES. The rates for electric service to commercial customers of the municipal electric utility whose annual use is over 90,000 kilowatt-hours are:
a) Effective with August 1, 2025 usage, a monthly demand charge of $13.95 per kilowatt of billing demand, where the billing demand is the highest demand metered for the current month, plus
b) Effective with August 1, 2025 usage, a monthly energy charge of $0.1326 per kilowatt-hour of metered energy use for all commercial-class customers, then
c) A Power Cost Adjustment, as provided in section 15231, applied to all kilowatt-hours of metered energy use.
Section 15-212. HEAVY COMMERCIAL RATES. The
rates for electric service to commercial customers of the municipal electric utility whose annual use is over 360,000 kilowatt-hours are:
a) A monthly debt service fee of zero ($00.00) dollars per meter, plus
b) Effective with August 1, 2025 usage, a monthly demand charge of $13.95 per kilowatt of billing demand, where the billing demand is the highest demand metered for the current month, plus
c) Effective with August 1, 2025 usage, a monthly energy charge of $0.1291 per kilowatt-hour of metered energy use for all heavy commercial-class customers, then
d) A Power Cost Adjustment, as provided m section 15231, applied to all kilowatt-hours of metered energy use.
Section 15-213. INDUSTRIAL RATES. The rates for electric service to commercial customers of the municipal electric utility whose annual use is over 1,020,000 kilowatt hours are:
a) A monthly debt service fee of $00.00 per meter, plus
b) Effective with August 1, 2025 usage, a monthly demand charge of $12.55 per kilowatt of billing demand, where the billing demand is the highest demand metered for the current month, plus
c) Effective with August 1, 2025 usage, a monthly energy charge of $0.1047 per kilowatt-hour of metered energy use for all industrial class customers, plus
d) A Power Cost Adjustment, as provided in section 15231, applied to all kilowatt-hours of metered energy use.
Section 15-214. PUBLIC SCHOOLS RATES. The rates for electric service to facilities owned and operated by the Baldwin Unified School District No. 348 are:
a) A monthly debt service fee of $0.00 per meter, plus
b) Effective with August 1, 2025 usage, a monthly demand charge of $13.95 per kilowatt of billing demand, where the billing demand is the highest demand metered for the current month, plus
c) Effective with August 1, 2025 usage, a monthly energy charge of $0.1187 per kilowatt-hour of metered energy use for public school-class customers, then
d) A Power Cost Adjustment, as provided in section 15231, applied to all kilowatt-hours of metered energy use.
Section 15-215.
CLUB HOUSE, SORORITY AND FRATERNITY RATES. The rates for electric service to university-approved student housing, including club houses, sororities, fraternities and on campus residential areas are:
a) A monthly debt service fee of $25.00 per meter for customers inside the city limits and $25.00 per meter for customers outside the city limits, plus
b) Effective with August 1, 2025 usage, a monthly energy charge of $0.1411 per kilowatt-hour of metered energy use for club/sorority/fraternity-class customers, then
c) A Power Cost Adjustment, as provided in section 15231, applied to all kilowatt-hours of metered energy use.
Section 15-216. UNIVERSITY RATES. The rates for electric service to any or all facilities owned and operated by a university for university purposes are:
a) Effective with August 1, 2025 usage, a monthly demand charge of $16.74 per kilowatt of billing demand, where the billing demand is the greater of the highest demand metered for the current month or 80 percent of the highest demand metered over the preceding eleven months, plus
b) Effective with August 1, 2025 usage, a monthly energy charge of $0.1022 per kilowatt-hour of metered energy use for university-class customers, then
c) A Power Cost Adjustment, as provided in section 15231, applied to all kilowatt-hours of metered energy use.
d) Baker University may enlist service with regular meters as needs arise. Any non-demand services operated by Baker University shall be billed according to the rate schedule in Section 15-210.
Section 15-217. CITY RATES. The rates for electric service to facilities used by the City of Baldwin for city purposes are:
a) A monthly debt service fee of $25.00 per meter, plus
b) Effective with August 1, 2025 usage, a monthly energy charge of $0.1411 per kilowatt-hour of metered energy use for cityclass customers, then
c) A Power Cost Adjustment, as provided in section 15231, applied to all kilowatt-hours of metered energy use.
Section 15-218. CHURCH RATES. This section is applicable to any church, synagogue, or other public place that is used for the purpose of conducting group religious worship services. The rates for electric service to church customers of the municipal electric utility are:
a) A monthly debt service fee of $25.00 per meter for customers inside the city limits, plus
b) Effective with August 1, 2025 usage, a monthly energy charge of $0.1411 per kilowatt-hour of metered energy use for church-class customers, then
c) A Power Cost Adjustment, as provided in section 15231, applied to all kilowatt-hours of metered energy use.
Section 15-231. POWER COST ADJUSTMENT. A power cost adjustment will be added each month to the energy charge per kWh for all customers of the municipal electric utility. The power cost adjustment (“PCA”) is to be computed each month using the actual delivered cost of energy for the most recent three-month period divided by the actual number of kilowatt-hours used for the same three-month period, subtracting the base power cost and multiplying the result by the compensation factor for distribution system losses and energy furnished free by the municipal electric utility to the City of Baldwin City.
PCA = [(Power Cost / kWh Used) – Base Power Cost] x Compensation Factor
For purposes of this formula, the following applies:
PCA = Power Cost Adjustment stated as a cost per kWh, rounded to the nearest $0.0001. The PCA could result in an incremental charge or a credit for the month
Power Cost = the most recent three-month actual cost of purchased power and fuel for power plant generation.
kWh Used = the most recent three-month actual kilowatt hours used.
Base Power Cost = budgeted annual power cost divided by the budgeted annual kWh.
Compensation Factor = 1.1111 and is a multiplier used to compensate the utility for accounted losses of energy given away at no charge such as street lighting, line losses both Internal (distribution) and External (transmission), and theft.
Section 2. All ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict with the provisions of this ordinance are hereby repealed to the extent necessary to resolve such conflict.
Section 3. If any part of this ordinance is declared invalid for any reason, such invalidity shall not affect the remaining valid portions of this ordinance. To this end, this ordinance is declared severable:
Section 4. This ordinance shall be effective upon adoption by the governing body, approval by the Mayor, and publication as required by law. The rates included herein shall be applied to energy usage on the appropriate dates as noted in the specific sections.
Section 5. On January 1 of every year, all electric rate categories will be adjusted according to the annual Municipal Cost Index (MCI).
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ENACTED by the governing body of the City of Baldwin City, Kansas, on this 19th day of August, 2025. APPROVED:
Casey Simoneau, Mayor ATTEST:
Amara Packard, City Clerk
CITY OF BALDWIN CITY
BC FASHION SHOW RETURNS SEPT. 6 WITH STYLE, COMMUNITY, AND CELEBRATION
Baldwin City’s most stylish night is almost here. The BC Fashion Show returns on Saturday, September 6, at the Lumberyard Arts Center, bringing together local designers, business owners, artists, and community members for an evening of fashion, music, shopping, and celebration. This event has become one of Baldwin City’s signature cultural highlights, combining creativity and community in support of the arts.
Runway Show and Community Models
Doors open at 5:30 p.m., with the runway show beginning at 6:30 p.m. inside the historic Lumberyard Arts Center.
The BC Fashion Show will showcase original designs created by local artists and boutiques, modeled by more than 50 members of the Baldwin City community, reflecting the deep involvement and support of the town’s residents. The runway will feature familiar Baldwin City faces, including Claudia Hey (Ad Astra Alpacas), Dana Mullis (Baldwin City Made), Bryan Butell (Baldwin State Bank), Dave Hill (Mid America Bank), Jeremy Rodrock (Amplify Life Center), Jenni Fish (The Maple), Catie Gwennap (The Sticks), Becky Fender (Becky’s Fashions), Sharon Vesecky (Quilters’ Paradise), as well as
the Baldwin City Recreation Commission Team and Douglas Spradlin (Standard Grooming Supply). Baker University’s new president, Dr. Jody Fournier, will also walk the runway alongside many other community members. The bartending team for the evening will be provided by Hometown Construction, adding to the event’s local spirit.
Supporting the Arts
The BC Fashion Show is more than just an entertaining night out; it also serves as an important fundraiser for the Lumberyard Arts Center, supporting arts education and programming throughout the year. The event is made possible through the sponsorship of Baldwin State Bank, Rice Precision Manufacturing, and Standard Grooming Supply, whose support helps ensure its continued growth and success.
Shopping on the Bricks
Following the runway show, attendees can move outdoors to enjoy shopping on Baldwin’s brick streets, where local vendors will be set up under the evening lights. Featured vendors include The Sticks, The Light Center, Sunny Daze, Woodland & Willow, Light + Links, and Blissful Burn Co., offering an array of unique products from jewelry to handmade goods.
Garden Party After the Show
The celebration continues with the Garden Party at Sullivan Square, presented by Standard Grooming Supply. The afterparty begins at 7:00 p.m. and is open to the entire community, regardless of whether guests attended the fashion show. The Garden Party features live music by Son Venezuela at 7:45 p.m., wine and beer from the Lumberyard Arts Center, concessions, and food available for purchase from El Patron.
VIP Experience
General admission to the BC Fashion Show is free, but there are also exclusive ways to experience the event. Three VIP tables remain for purchase, offering seating for six under a tent, charcuterie boards by Monteaux’s Smorgasboards, champagne, and premier runway views. Businesses are encouraged to decorate their VIP tents as a creative way to advertise and celebrate their brand. Proceeds from VIP tables and donations directly benefit the Lumberyard Arts Center and its mission to support the arts in Baldwin City.
Event Details
Date: Saturday, September 6
Location: Lumberyard Arts Center
Doors Open: 5:30 p.m.
Fashion Show: 6:30–7:30 p.m.
Garden Party at Sullivan Square: Begins at 7 p.m., live music at 7:45 p.m.
Admission:
• Fashion Show is free; Garden Party is free and open to all
• Food & Drinks: Beer, wine, and concessions available; El Patron on-site
• The BC Fashion Show highlights the talent and creativity of Baldwin City’s artists, boutiques, and businesses while bringing the community together for a memorable evening. With its combination of a runway showcase, live music, shopping, food, and community celebration, this event continues to grow as a cornerstone of Baldwin City’s cultural calendar. For more information or to reserve one of the remaining VIP tables, visit www. lumberyardartscenter.org.
BALDWIN CITY YOUTH ENSEMBLE NOW ENROLLING
Young musicians in Baldwin City have a new opportunity this fall! Victoria Love, a senior music education major at Baker University, is starting the Baldwin City Youth Ensemble for beginning and intermediate string players, pianists, and percussionists.
Rehearsals: Tuesdays, 5:45–7 p.m.
Dates: Sept. 2 – Dec. 2
Location: Baker University Band Room
Enrollment: $180
Parents who play an instrument are also welcome to join. The season will conclude with one performance during the second week of December.
For more information or to sign up, contact Victoria at LessonsWithVictoria@ gmail.com.
COMMUNITY VOICES/EVENTS
BUCKET LIST
THINKING OUTSIDE THE BOX
By Jeanine Ross
Ever since that movie staring Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freeman, I’ve had a bucket list. Initially it was filled with places I wanted to visit before I kicked the bucket and there are still some places on it like Italy and Australia (I’m so fascinated by Aboriginal people) and France and Japan. I still have plans to visit all of those places, but more recently I’ve added a different kind of exploration to my list. I want to explore the recesses of my mind.
Okay, I can almost hear some of you saying, “here she goes again,” and you would be right! I think we, as humans have so much of ourselves we’ve never explored. We just kind of take ourselves for granted without ever expecting more from these wonderful, magnificent, amazing, minds and bodies we’ve been given. For instance, did you know that our bodies completely renew themselves every seven years? Doesn’t that beg the question, then why are we aging instead of getting younger? Did you know that your body was designed to heal itself or that our brains are more complex than any computer ever invented?
There are so many things we don’t know about these gifts we’ve been given. We just let society and the doctors and the scientists tell us who and what we are without ever diving into it ourselves. Why do you think that is? Maybe we think it’s too complicated or too time consuming or
simply unnecessary because we’re getting along just fine without knowing all of that. But are we? If you knew how to trigger your body to heal itself, wouldn’t you do it? If you could channel your mind to produce everything you ever wanted, you can’t tell me that you wouldn’t do it because we all would! So why don’t we? Lazy? Unbelievers? Scared of just how powerful we really are?
God says, we have dominion over everything. So why do we fear anything? Why have we settled for what we have accepted instead of allowing ourselves to experience this life as God intended, in abundance of all things? There is no lack in God’s intention for us. There is no illness. There is no suffering. There is no sorrow, so why are we allowing it to rule our world and invade our existence?
I don’t know about you, but I want to know! I want to live this life for as long as I have it, in abundance, in perfect health and unconditional love and I know that’s how I was designed, how all of us were designed. So, my bucket list is filled with searching for things that will increase my awareness and courage to walk through doors inside me that I used to fear. I want to live my best life on this side of eternity and I trust and believe I already have everything I need to do that. My challenge is not to find something outside of me but to be brave enough to question the limits I’ve put on myself, on the inside of me and remove them so I can receive all of God’s plan.
So, if you really want your life to change for the better, it begins with “Thinking Outside the Box!”
EVENTS EVENTS
August 27
Helen Blanchard Day
Lumberyard Arts Center 718 High St 1:00 -3:00 p.m.
August 29
Fiber and Flavor
Homestead Kitchen and Bakery 9:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.
August 30
Live on the Patio
Uplift Baldwin 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
August 30
Saturday Morning Farmer’s Market near Sullivan Square 8:00 a.m. - 10:30/11:00 a.m. questions? contact hornbergerfarms@gmail.com
September 3, 4, and 5
The Diary of Anne Frank – a play
Darby Hope Theatre
618 Eighth Street, Baldwin 7:30 p.m.
Seats are limited. For tickets, contact theatre@bakeru.edu
September 7
The Diary of Anne Frank – a play
Darby Hope Theatre
618 Eighth Street, Baldwin 2:00 p.m.
Seats are limited. For tickets, contact theatre@bakeru.edu
September 6
BC Fashion Show
6:00 PM: Fashion Show 7:00 PM: Garden Party, Live Music Lumberyard Arts Center
September 8
Breakfast of Hope
HeadQuarters Kansas 2110 Delaw., Lawrence, KS 8:00 - 10:00 a,m.
September 19
Third Friday Market
downtown Baldwin City 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
September 20
Big Hair on the Square
6:00 PM, Sullivan Square
September 27
Baldwin City Trivia Night, Hosted by the Baldwin City Chamber of Commerce
Baldwin City Community Center Details TBD
October 4-5
Kaw Valley Farm Tour
Kaw Valley
www.douglas.k-state.edu/programareas/kaw_valley_farm_tour/
October 18-19
Maple Leaf Festival
downtown Baldwin City
October 25
Maple Leaf
Gravel Grind
downtown Baldwin City
8:00 p.m.
CITY OF BALDWIN CITY
LABOR DAY TO AUTUMN WAY
DEAR HOMEKEEPER
By Cat Henry
I look forward to Labor Day weekend and plan for it, not so much for the outings or gatherings, but for the chance to decorate and welcome Fall. The gatherings will come in their own time.
I seasonally decorate my home to keep it feeling fresh and inviting. Small changes, a wreath, a vase of spring flowers, a few winter candles, help break up the sameness, making familiar rooms feel renewed. Some might dismiss it as clutter, but the difference between clutter and character in a home comes down to intention and presentation.
But first, if I add anything to my home interior without removing something to make space for it, my house would implode. I try to keep my home spacious.
A messy home rarely speaks of character. More often, it reflects the period someone is in, the weight they carry, or simply the humanness of trying to keep up. Clutter becomes a problem when it compromises hygiene, safety, or order. But when things are chosen with care and given a place, they add character instead of chaos.
I learned this lesson years ago when my daughter was taking voice lessons from the Music Director of the Kansas City Lyric Opera. She was so effortlessly classy. When I stepped into her condo, I noticed a shopping bag on the floor, shoes tossed near her purse, stacks of books and magazines on a tray, candles, framed pictures, and a vase of flowers. There were baskets, pillows, a throw, and live plants. She brought me some iced tea as the lesson went on in the next room. I knew the stresses she carried, yet none of it overshadowed the ambiance of her home. Instead, I was so comfortable and at ease, and maybe lived a little vicariously through her while sitting in her living room.
It was also a visual lesson. Clutter happens when objects land where they will, unconsidered, until the space feels restless. Character emerges when those same objects are gathered and arranged to
tell a story about who lives there. It isn’t about owning more or less; it can be as simple as repurposing what you already have. It’s about asking whether what surrounds you reflects the life you want your home to echo.
Everyday items can carry charm. In the kitchen, common kitchenware can serve double duty, like seasonal mugs hung on hooks, or colorful glasses kept in open shelving, offering usefulness and charm in one stroke. It’s the difference from cupboard clutter, more still-life of daily ritual. Put on a simmering pot of cinnamon, oranges, peels of apples, cloves, a splash of vanilla, and water. Photographs, too, benefit from this thoughtful eye. Scattered singly across every surface, they lose their impact. Curated in a cluster on a table or a gallery wall, they become a narrative of memory, grounding the space with a sense of who you are and what you hold dear.
The difference is in the space you allow. Intention creates breathing room. Presentation turns the ordinary into an atmosphere. And character, unlike clutter, always leaves space for people to feel at home.
For me, autumn is a generous season to draw from. I play with fabric textures, swap pillow covers to reflect the season, and refresh my coat rack with shawls to grab for porch-sitting in front of a small tabletop firepit. I tuck small “seasonal stations” into corners, on the fireplace mantle, pumpkins on the front porch, mums (from the library sale!), some lanterns with candles, and a wreath on the door.
People who cross the threshold know that autumn has arrived, bringing with it both beauty and rest. In truth, autumn doesn’t ask us to compete with it. It only asks us to pay attention, to let its richness lean into our lives. A handful of thoughtful touches indoors, a glow here, a texture there, a scent in the air, is all it takes to make the season feel at home.
When done decorating for autumn, I am good to go until Thanksgiving!
Until next time, with grace, Cathenry. ch@gmail.com
P.S. When a home’s character, created by the homekeeper, greets the season, clutter steps aside.
City Council met at the Community Center on August 19, 2025, at 7pm, in regular session. Present were Casey Simoneau, Mayor; Susan Pitts, Council President; Cory Venable; Scott Lauridsen; and Jay King. Council Member Julie Constantinescu was absent.
Mayor Simoneau called the meeting to order.
Consent Agenda, Public Comment, & Property Sale
● The council approved the consent agenda, consisting of the minutes from the August 5th Council Meeting, the monthly receipts, and a change to the Baldwin City Fashion Show special event application, without opposition or comment.
● There was no public comment for items not on the agenda.
● They also authorized Mayor Simoneau to sign the deed for the sale of the old motel property.
Electric Rate Ordinance Correction
● A previous rate increase aimed to raise revenue by 10%, but the ordinance Council approved at the July 15 meeting was writtten incorrectly, causing residents to see a 10% rate increase on July usage, from $0.1400 to $0.1540.
● Two options were considered to fix this:
● Option 1: A one time $13 credit on August bills, and adjust the rate to $0.1450/kWh.
● Option 2 (Approved 4-0): Lower the electric rate more significantly over the next 5 months to gradually refund the overcharge, setting the rate at $0.1411/kWh.
● The council chose Option 2, believing it would benefit residents more over time.
Solar Ordinance Update
● State law has changed regarding how cities must handle solar energy and net metering.
● Key changes:
● Cities must credit customers for all excess solar energy sent back to the grid.
● There are now rules for how large a solar system can be, based on past energy usage or building size.
● The council discussed how to proceed in order to come into compliance.
● A resident’s solar application is pending; council and staff agreed to work quickly to resolve the issue legally and fairly.
● Staff will prepare new ordinance options for the next meeting.
Committee Reports
● Budget & Finance: Focused on fixing the electric rate ordinance. Next meeting is August 29.
● Development: Discussed food truck regulations with Douglas County officials. Next meeting is September 22.
● Public Safety: Proposed fines for marijuana offenses:
● 1st offense: $100 + fees
● 2nd offense: $200 + fees
● 3rd offense: Felony
● Next meeting: September 9
● Public Works: Awaiting next meeting date.
● Strategic Planning: No recent meetings, but plans to improve community transparency are in progress.
Transparency & Community Engagement
● Council members acknowledged that residents felt uninformed about recent decisions.
● They committed to improving communication and transparency, including better outreach and clearer information sharing.
Executive Session
● The council entered a closed session to discuss non-elected personnel matters and legal issues.
