CLUB PALMYRA MARKS 10 YEARS OF BUILDING COMPETITIVE SOCCER CLOSE TO HOME
For families in Baldwin City and surrounding communities, Club Palmyra has become a familiar name in youth athletics—one rooted in development, teamwork, and a commitment to keeping competitive soccer local.
Founded a decade ago, Club Palmyra is a locally based youth soccer club serving boys and girls beginning in second grade through junior high. The club’s mission centers on providing a safe, well-run, and high-quality competitive soccer experience that supports both athletic growth and personal development. Emphasis is placed on confidence, accountability, teamwork, and long-term skill building, while remaining accessible for families seeking a higher level of play without leaving the community.
At the youth level, competitive soccer differs from recreational programs through its structure and focus on development. Club Palmyra teams train regularly, compete in organized league play, and challenge players to improve technical skills, game awareness, and consistency. In addition to league schedules, teams participate in at least two tournaments each year, offering players the opportunity to compete against teams from outside the immediate area and gain valuable experience.
Club Palmyra currently fields eight teams, ranging from U9 to U15, and competes in the Heartland Soccer Association, one of the largest youth soccer leagues in the country. Over the past several years, many Baldwin High School athletes have come through the Club Palmyra program, reflecting the long-term impact of players developing together over time and building strong chemistry on and off the field.
With the new year underway, club leaders are encouraging families to begin thinking ahead to the upcoming season. Early planning allows families to learn about competitive soccer, ask questions, and evaluate schedules well before spring and summer commitments fill up. It also gives players time to prepare mentally and physically if they are considering taking the next step in their soccer journey.
Club Palmyra welcomes players who are eager to learn, open to coaching, and motivated to improve. Prior club experience is not required, and athletes who are new to competitive soccer are encouraged to explore the program if they are ready for a higher level of structure and commitment. Coaches focus on meeting players where they are and helping them grow at an appropriate pace.
CITY UTILITY RATE FORUM DRAWS COMMUNITY DISCUSSION AT BALDWIN COMMUNITY CENTER
A city utility rate forum held on February 3 at the Baldwin Community Center brought together many local residents for an open discussion about proposed utility rate changes and the future of city services.
The forum was led by City Administrator Russ Harding, along with members of the Baldwin City Council. The event provided an opportunity for residents to learn more about potential adjustments to utility rates and to ask questions directly of city leadership.
During the forum, city officials outlined several factors contributing to rising utility costs, including increased expenses for equipment, materials, and labor; the ongoing maintenance and repair of aging infrastructure; and the need to invest in system upgrades to ensure reliability, safety, and regulatory compliance. Inflation and rising operational costs affecting utilities across the region were also noted as contributing factors.
City leaders explained that many of the figures presented during the forum were placeholders, intended to illustrate possible scenarios rather than final numbers. Officials noted that the city will need to make a decision regarding utility rates by February 17, following continued review and consideration of community input.
A significant portion of the evening was dedicated to citizen questions and comments. Residents expressed concerns about affordability, the impact of potential rate increases on fixed-income households, and how changes could affect local businesses. Several attendees asked how Baldwin City’s rates
compare to neighboring communities and whether any increases could be phased in over time to reduce financial strain.
Other questions focused on transparency and long-term planning, with residents seeking clarity on how utility funds are allocated, what infrastructure projects are being prioritized, and how the city balances maintenance with future growth. Many emphasized the importance of maintaining reliable services while also encouraging thoughtful decision-making.
City officials reiterated that no final decisions had been made at the time of the forum and emphasized the importance of public feedback in shaping next steps. In a recent conversation with newly elected Mayor Gerry Cullumber, he stressed that ensuring residents are informed and heard is a priority when decisions with community-wide impact are considered.
Additional details, including meeting packets and supporting documents related to the utility rate discussion, are available on the city’s website at www. baldwincity.gov/city-council under the “Packets” section. City officials also encouraged residents to reach out with questions or concerns as the decisionmaking process continues.
The forum reflected strong community engagement, with residents taking time to attend, ask questions, and participate in the discussion. City leaders encouraged continued involvement and noted that a decision on utility rates is expected to be made at the next City Council meeting on February 17, 2026, with ongoing public communication leading up to that meeting.
BOOK FAIR FOR GROWN UPS BRINGS READERS TOGETHER AT BALDWIN CITY LIBRARY
This past weekend, the Friends of the Baldwin City Library hosted its Book Fair for Grown Ups, welcoming community members for an afternoon centered on books, creativity, and local talent. The event took place Saturday, February 7, from 3–5 p.m. at the Baldwin City Library.
Designed to celebrate adult readers and the broader literary community, the event featured a mix of local authors, literary-themed vendorsw, and handson opportunities to explore the library in new ways. Visitors browsed books, met writers, and discovered unique book-inspired items while enjoying a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
One highlight of the afternoon was the Kansas Room open house, which invited attendees to explore
local history and archival materials housed within the library. A silent auction added to the excitement, offering a variety of items while supporting library programs and initiatives. Refreshments were available throughout the event, encouraging guests to linger, visit, and connect.
The Book Fair for Grown Ups reflected the Friends of the Baldwin City Library’s ongoing efforts to support literacy, promote community engagement, and celebrate the role the library plays as a gathering space for learning and connection. By bringing together readers, writers, artists, and supporters, the event showcased the depth and creativity of Baldwin City’s reading community.
COMMUNITY
BALDWIN CITY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ENCOURAGES MEMBERS TO RENEW FOR 2026
The Baldwin City Chamber of Commerce is encouraging local businesses and organizations to renew their memberships for 2026, highlighting a year of communitydriven accomplishments and continued momentum for downtown and economic development initiatives.
Chamber leaders emphasized that member support plays a key role in keeping Baldwin City vibrant and economically strong. Throughout 2025, the Chamber focused on projects designed to promote tourism, enhance downtown aesthetics, and strengthen partnerships across the community.
Among the year’s major accomplishments was the launch of Baldwin City’s first Tourism Guide. The guide was made possible through a Kansas Department of Commerce grant, strategic partnerships, and significant volunteer involvement, and was designed to showcase local businesses, attractions, and community assets to both residents and visitors.
Another visible initiative completed in 2025 was the Downtown Pole Banner Project. The project featured nine original banner designs created in collaboration with local artists and informed by community input, adding color and character to downtown streets while celebrating Baldwin City’s creative spirit.
Volunteer engagement also remained a cornerstone of Chamber efforts. Dozens of residents and committee members contributed their time and expertise to Chamber projects throughout the year, supporting initiatives tied to economic vitality, promotion, organization, and design. Collaboration with local schools and residents helped guide banner themes and other community-focused efforts.
In addition, the Chamber continued building strong partnerships with city committees, arts organizations, and other local groups to support ongoing downtown revitalization and long-term community planning.
Looking ahead to 2026, Chamber leaders say membership support will be essential as projects continue to expand and new initiatives are introduced. Businesses are encouraged to renew their memberships by February 27, 2026, to ensure inclusion in the Chamber’s printed business directory.
Membership renewals can be completed online at www.baldwincitychamber.com/join, or by mailing payment to the Baldwin City Chamber of Commerce, PO Box 501, Baldwin City, KS 66006.
Chamber members and residents interested in becoming more involved are also invited to join one of the Chamber’s four committees: Economic Vitality, Organization, Promotion, or Design. Committee participation provides an opportunity to help shape the future of Baldwin City through hands-on involvement and collaborative planning.
Additional information about Chamber membership, committees, and upcoming initiatives is available through the Baldwin City Chamber of Commerce.
COMMUNITY
BALDWIN EDUCATION FOUNDATION ANNOUNCES INAUGURAL HALL OF FAME INDUCTEES
The Baldwin Education Foundation (BEF) has announced the first-ever class of its newly established Hall of Fame, honoring individuals whose lasting contributions have shaped the heritage and excellence of Baldwin USD 348 in academics, the arts, athletics, and service.
The 2026 Inaugural BEF Hall of Fame inductees represent a wide range of leadership, dedication, and impact within the Baldwin City school community. Each honoree was selected for their meaningful influence on students, programs, and the overall culture of educational excellence within the district.
The inaugural inductees are:
Academics: Dr. Bill Neuenswander
Arts: Dr. Walt Bailey
Athletics: Emily Brown Hess
Service: Ginny Honomichl
According to BEF, the Hall of Fame was created to celebrate the many forms educational
excellence can take—inside the classroom, on the stage, on the field, and through selfless service. The inductees’ collective impact spans decades and reflects the values that continue to guide Baldwin schools today.
These individuals exemplify what it means to invest in students and the future of the community. Their legacies continue to inspire generations of learners, educators, and supporters of USD 348.
Each honoree’s category highlights a unique avenue of influence. From academic leadership and artistic development to athletic achievement and unwavering service, the Hall of Fame recognizes that strong schools are built through diverse talents and shared commitment.
The 2026 inductees will be formally recognized during the Baldwin Education Foundation’s Spring Gala on March 27 at the Baldwin Community Center. The evening will celebrate not only the honorees but also BEF’s ongoing mission to support innovative programs, educational opportunities, and student success throughout the district.
This past weekend, the Baldwin Education Foundation also partnered with the Baldwin City Recreation Commission to host its annual Tacos and Tequila fundraiser, bringing community members together for an evening of food, fun, and support for local education. The event served as another example of BEF’s ongoing efforts to engage the community while raising funds to benefit students and schools throughout USD 348.
LOVE AS THE FOUNDATION
THINKING OUTSIDE THE BOX
By Jeanine Ross
Ahhhh February! The month of Love! Some of us look forward to this month all year! We buy gifts, we plan special events, we buy sexy lingerie. Ahhhh February!
But what if love was the foundation of everything we do? What if, instead of waiting on a special time of year, we just express love all the time? I don’t mean, romantic love, though I’m sure your significant other would like that, but I mean love in everything we think, say and do. Can you imagine a world like that? A world where, before we said something that might hurt someone else, we stopped and considered our words. Or before we made a decision that would adversely affect someone else, we thought twice about how it should be done. What kind of world would that be? Can you imagine it?
Remember the song by John Lennon “Imagine” where he sang about all the people living as one with nothing to fight over, no possessions, no religious beliefs, nothing to kill or die for? I remember crying the first time I heard it. He sang, “you may think I’m a dreamer, but I’m not the only one. I hope someday you’ll join us and the world can live as one.”
What a thought. What a world that would be. I can visualize it because I believe humanity is basically good and that all of us want a loving, accepting, generous and caring place to live out our days. But if we all want it, why isn’t it happening? Why is there so much intolerance, misunderstanding, and outright hatred?
I think we’ve forgotten what it is to have love as the foundation of everything. We’ve forgotten that every human has the right to their opinion, even if it is different than ours. We’ve forgotten that only love can cancel hate and only light can cancel darkness. That means, in the heat of any situation, we have to put our egos away, calm our passion about whatever is being discussed and truly listen to what the other person is saying. Nine times out of ten, what they really want, more than the point they are trying to make, is to be heard and understood and accepted. And isn’t that what we all want? Every situation needs a hero. Someone who is willing to take the backseat long enough to let someone else feel significant. When love is the foundation, it becomes much more important to bring peace to the situation than to be right. When love is the foundation, we surrender to the teachings we spend so much time in church and Sunday school listening to. When love is the foundation, you don’t have to be right, you have to be giving. We all have it within us to be the hero, we just have to remember that love is our foundation and making that our center is the only way to change the direction of this world, one situation at a time.
So, if you really want your life to change for the better, it begins by “Thinking Outside the Box.”
USD 348 COLLABORATION DAY INVESTS IN EDUCATORS, STUDENTS, AND STRONGER SCHOOLS
For USD 348, a Collaboration Day is more than a break from the traditional classroom schedule—it is a purposeful investment in the people who support students every day.
USD 348 held a districtwide Collaboration Day on February 2, during which there was no school for students. The day provided dedicated time for teachers and staff to come together for professional development, shared learning, and reflection focused on strengthening instructional practices and supporting educator well-being.
Collaboration Days are designed to encourage teamwork across grade levels and buildings, allowing educators to learn from one another, align instructional goals, and share strategies that support student success. Rather than working in isolation, teachers use this time to collaborate, problem-solve, and refine their approaches in a supportive, districtwide setting.
During the February 2 Collaboration Day, professional development sessions focused on reading strategies and best practices, behavior interventions and classroom strategies, and the importance of self-care. By addressing both instructional growth and personal wellness, the district emphasized the importance of caring for
the educators who care for students every day.
Reading instruction and behavior supports remain key priorities across USD 348, and Collaboration Days allow educators to deepen their understanding of research-based practices while discussing how to apply them effectively in real classroom environments. These shared learning opportunities help ensure consistency and continued growth throughout the district.
District leaders also highlighted the role of Collaboration Days in supporting educator wellness. Providing time for reflection and self-care helps teachers maintain balance and resilience, which ultimately benefits students in the classroom.
In addition to the recent Collaboration Day, USD 348 families are reminded that there will be no school for students on February 12, 13, and 16 due to scheduled Parent-Teacher Conferences.
Collaboration Days reflect USD 348’s broader commitment to continuous improvement and professional growth. By investing time in educators and fostering a culture of collaboration, the district continues to strengthen learning environments for students and staff alike.
WINTER HEALTH RISKS: WHAT TO KNOW AND HOW TO STAY SAFE
BRIDGING THE GAP: A RURAL HEALTH COLUMN
As winter approaches, it’s important to recognize the health risks that come with freezing temperatures and winter weather. While weather can vary across the state, preparing for a strong cold front is especially important for rural areas where access to healthcare facilities and emergency services may be impeded.
One of the most common winter health concerns is respiratory illness, including coronavirus, influenza (flu), and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). According to Johns Hopkins physician Michael Albert, every year 5% to 20% of Americans will catch the flu, and 60,000 to 160,000 older adults are hospitalized with RSV. This is in addition to COVID-19 variants which are contagious and tend to occur in waves. These illnesses often spike during the winter months for several reasons. According to the Mayo Clinic Minute, these illnesses often spike during winter months as people spend more time indoors, allowing viruses to spread more quickly. Cold, dry air also allows respiratory droplets to stay airborne longer, while the cilia (hairlike projections in the upper respiratory tract that help clear out germs) do not function as well in dry, cold conditions.
symptoms (such as cough, sore throat, or fever) can help protect family members, coworkers, and the broader community.
Cold-related illnesses are another important winter health concern. Hypothermia occurs when the body loses heat faster than it can produce it, and can happen during prolonged outdoor exposure, power outages, or when homes are not adequately heated. Warning signs include uncontrollable shivering, confusion, slurred speech, and extreme fatigue. There’s also frostbite which occurs when skin and underlying tissues freeze, most often affecting fingers, toes, ears, and nose. Early signs include numbness, tingling, and pale or waxy skin. To reduce risk of both illnesses, dress in layers, keep clothing dry, cover exposed skin, limit time outdoors during extreme cold, and check on neighbors, especially older adults, during severe weather.
Fortunately, there are several simple ways to reduce the risk of infection. Regular handwashing is one of the most important steps, especially after being in public spaces. Cleaning and sanitizing frequently touched surfaces such as doorknobs, countertops, and phones can also help limit spread. Staying up to date on recommended vaccinations each year provides added protection, particularly for older adults and those with chronic conditions. Covering coughs and sneezes, avoiding close contact when sick, and staying home when you have
Lastly, winter can impact mental health. Shorter days, reduced sunlight, and increased isolation, especially in rural areas, can contribute to low mood, anxiety, or symptoms of seasonal depression. Some easy ways to protect your mental health include staying connected with friends and family, maintaining daily routines, and spending time outdoors when weather allows. You can also reach out to local resources or healthcare providers if symptoms persist.
As a community, we all play a role in staying safe and healthy during the winter. Checking in on neighbors, preparing homes, and taking simple preventive steps can make a huge difference.
Midwestern winters can be challenging, but with awareness and preparation many winter related health risks can be reduced.
ABOUT THE WRITER: Shelby Coons is a second-year medical student at the University of Kansas School of Medicine. She graduated from Field Kindley High School in Coffeyville, KS in 2020, and the University of Kansas in 2024. Growing up in a small town inspired her passion for serving rural and underserved communities. Outside of medicine, she enjoys running and working out. Shelby is passionate about using her medical training to care for and support the people of rural Kansas. The Rural Cancer Institute is a national non-profit dedicated to rural cancer advocacy, research and practice. Send questions and comments to program@ruralcancer.org
By Shelby Coons
To help families explore opportunities, the club offers a Player Interest Form, which assists leadership in planning for age groups, communicating timelines, and sharing next steps. Submitting the form does not commit families to participation, but instead opens the door to information and ongoing communication.
This spring, Club Palmyra will host a free pre-tryout camp followed by two days of free tryouts, allowing players to experience the environment firsthand. Registration for both opens on April 1, 2026, and families are encouraged to participate even if they are simply curious about competitive soccer.
As Club Palmyra celebrates its 10-year milestone, the club reflects on a decade built on consistency, trust, and community
investment. While the program has grown in organization, coaching experience, and structure, its core values remain unchanged— prioritizing development, doing things the right way, and providing a strong soccer experience close to home.
Being a local club continues to shape Club Palmyra’s culture. Players attend school together, families know one another, and the program remains deeply connected to the Baldwin City and Palmyra communities. That local foundation fosters accountability, pride, and long-term relationships that extend well beyond the soccer field.
More information about upcoming camps, tryouts, and opportunities is available by completing the Player Interest Form and visiting www.clubpalmyra.com
2nd Tuesdays for BEF
February Friend Fest
Feb. 24 25 Year Anniversary Reception 5:00 pm, Amplify Life Center You’re invited to celebrate 25 Years of Amplify Life Center (formerly Rodrock Chiropractic) serving the area!
Feb. 26 6th Annual Skilled Trades Career Fair 9:00 am -
COMMUNITY
DE SOTO PANASONIC BATTERY PLANT NEARING 50% PRODUCTION, SECOND WING UNDERWAY
Panasonic’s Kansas battery plant will ramp up to 50% of its production capacity in the next few months, a company executive said Monday.
Kristen Walters, Panasonic Energy vice president of human resources, said the company is starting two new production lines at its De Soto plant, adding to two lines already in operation.
Construction has begun on the second wing of the lithium-ion battery cell plant, and two of the wing’s four lines will be in operation in 2027, Walters said in a virtual interview.
The plant opened in July amidst concerns political changes would affect operations. The Trump administration eliminated tax credits for buying electric vehicles, which dropped the industry’s sales at the end of last year in the fourth quarter by 36%, year over year, according to Cox Automotive.
Walters said Panasonic Energy has added battery customers in addition to Tesla, which is its largest customer.
“Our goal is to keep pace with our customer demand,” she said.
The company is projected to employ 4,000 people once it reaches full capacity.
“We’re at about 1,400 employees now,” Walters said. “We’d love to give out 100 offers on Thursday, but we expect to probably need at least 300 more team members as we start up the fourth line.”
Panasonic is holding a hiring event from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Thursday at Astra Enterprise Park, 10701 Astra Parkway in De Soto, in factory trailers located under the water towers. The hiring event is for entry-level skilled machine technicians.
$250,000 IN GRANT
FUNDING AVAILABLE FOR HERITAGE PROJECTS IN DOUGLAS COUNTY
The Douglas County Heritage Conservation Council is accepting applications for the 2026 Natural and Cultural Heritage Grant Program. Up to $250,000 is available, with individual awards of as much as $60,000.
The council encourages applications for community projects focused on cultural heritage, natural heritage or historic preservation. All projects must take place in Douglas County and be completed within two years.
The program includes two grant categories:
Seed grants. These grants support smallerscale projects such as events, curriculum or material development, signage or planning efforts. Seed grants require a shorter application process and provide up to $5,000. A total of $40,000 is available.
Target grants. These grants support projects expected to have a significant and lasting impact on the conservation of the county’s natural and cultural resources. Awards are available up to $60,000, with a total of $210,000 in funding.
Applications are due by 5 p.m. March 5. Applicants must discuss their project with Heritage Conservation Coordinator Kaitlyn Ammerlaan by Feb. 20 before submitting an application.
YOUTH SERVICES OFFERS FREE PROGRAM TO HELP CAREGIVERS TACKLE TEEN STRUGGLES
The Youth Services Division of Douglas County Criminal Justice Services is offering “The Parent Project,” a 10-week program that gives parents, grandparents and caregivers tools to guide their strong-willed youth, ages 10 and older, and build healthy families. Classes are held every Tuesday from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., starting Feb. 17 and ending April 28. The classes are held at 1006 New Hampshire Street in Lawrence. The program is open to Douglas County residents, and there is no cost.
Parent Project is designed to tackle the hardest challenges facing youth: drugs, youth violence, depression and social media. To sign up for the program or ask questions, email parentproject@ dgcoks.gov or call 785-331-1300.
Story by Morgan Chilson, Kansas Reflector
