A BALDWIN CITY NEWSPAPER
RAINBOW EXPERIENCE PRESCHOOL PLANS NEW FACILITY
Rainbow Experience Preschool Plans New Childcare Facility, Announces Leadership Search
Plans are moving steadily forward for a major expansion of Rainbow Experience Preschool, marking an important step toward meeting Baldwin City’s growing childcare needs.
Since June 2025, a dedicated subcommittee has met monthly to guide the project. The group includes community members with professional backgrounds in construction, engineering, banking and finance, childcare, and human resources. Collectively, the committee has contributed a significant number of volunteer hours, playing a key role in shaping the project’s direction and feasibility.
The new childcare facility is planned for the north side of Highway 56 near Firetree. Current timelines anticipate breaking ground in mid2026, with the new location expected to open in mid-2027.
One Unified Facility for the Future
Originally, the expansion was structured in two phases. Phase 1
focused on building a new infant and toddler care facility in a separate location, while Phase 2 explored selling Rainbow’s current preschool building and eventually consolidating all programs into a single expanded space.
As of January 2026, following continued feasibility studies, financial analysis, and board discussion, Rainbow Experience Preschool is now considering combining both phases into one integrated project. This approach would allow all childcare services—from infant care through Pre-K—to operate under one roof in a purpose-built facility.
Leadership believes the unified model offers a long-term solution that prioritizes sustainability, operational efficiency, and continued access to high-quality, affordable childcare for Baldwin City families.
Joint Venture Supports Community Growth
The expansion is being pursued as a joint venture with Baldwin City Economic Development, reinforcing the role childcare plays in supporting workforce stability and community growth.
Rainbow Experience Preschool has served Baldwin City for more than 60 years as a not-for-profit childcare provider, with a longstanding mission to support young families through affordable and dependable early childhood education
Leadership Position Announced
As part of the expansion, Rainbow Experience Preschool will soon begin a public search for a Director, a new full-time leadership role planned to launch alongside the new facility.
The director will lead the planning and opening of the new center— serving children from newborn throughPre-K—and will oversee daily operations once the facility opens in 2027. Responsibilities include licensing and regulatory compliance, staff recruitment and training, curriculum development, operational planning, and family engagement.
The position offers a salary range of $50,000 to $70,000, with a projected start date in fall 2026. Candidates with experience in early childhood education leadership and familiarity with Kansas licensing requirements are encouraged to apply.
Applications, including a resume and cover letter, should be submitted to Austin Wegener at Austin_Wegener@ yahoo.com
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. With strong community support, dedicated volunteer leadership, and thoughtful long-range planning already underway, Rainbow Experience Preschool’s expansion reflects a meaningful investment in Baldwin City’s families—supporting early childhood development, workforce stability, and the long-term health of the community.
WHERE COLOR, CRAFT, AND COMMUNITY MEET— GARY L. KELLER’S QUILTS TAKE CENTER STAGE AT THE LUMBERYARD ARTS CENTER.
DOGS AND CATS LIVING TOGETHER—FOR GOOD.
Baker “Cats” and Baldwin “Dogs” came together for a powerful morning of service. See the impact on the back cover.
SPORTS EQUIPMENT EXCHANGE ACCEPTING DONATIONS THROUGH FEBRUARY 18
BEST of Baldwin is sponsoring a Sports Equipment Exchange, providing families an opportunity to donate and share gently used sports gear within the community.
Donations are being accepted now through February 18 and may be dropped off at 210 N. 6th Street. Items such as balls, pads, bats, rackets, and other sports equipment are welcome.
The exchange event will take place on February 18 from 4 to 8 p.m., giving families a chance to shop donated gear and help ensure local youth have access to the equipment they need to play.
Community members are encouraged to clean out closets, donate usable items, and support this effort to make youth sports more accessible in Baldwin City.
BUILDING EXPERIENCES SUPPORT TEAM SEEKING BOARD MEMBERS
The Building Experiences Support Team (B.E.S.T.) is seeking at least two new board members to help plan and carry out events that support local youth and strengthen the Baldwin City community.
B.E.S.T. is a volunteer-driven organization focused on creating positive experiences through community events, service projects, and opportunities that bring people together while supporting youth involvement and engagement.
Community members interested in serving in a board position—or volunteering their time in other ways—are encouraged to get involved. Those interested may email B.E.S.T.ofbaldwin@outlook.com for more information.
EVENTS
INNER CHATTER
THINKING OUTSIDE THE BOX
By Jeanine Ross
Celebrating
Kansas Quilting
Have you ever sat still long enough to listen to your inner chatter? We all have voices in our heads that regurgitate our memories, our fears, our parents’ fears, and every experience we’ve ever had! They say things like, “You’re never gonna get rich,” or “She’s so much prettier than you will ever be”, or “He’s so out of your league.” The voices, also known as thoughts, speak to you non-stop, 24/7, even in your sleep!
Grownups
Tacos and Tequila
Most of us have grown so accustomed to our thoughts bossing us around, we don’t even consciously hear them. Instead, we follow their commands like zombies, doing whatever, believing whatever the voices say. We have no idea that we are being controlled by things in our past, our fears, our family fears, and our environmental experiences. It doesn’t seem possible that something that has such control over our lives could be ignored so completely, but it can, and it is.
never amount to anything.”
“You’re not the brightest bulb in the box, ya know.” “Children should be seen, not heard.”
Then we start our own inner chatter based on those beliefs.
“I’ll never get that job.” “My body is too fat for high fashion.”
“I know they’re talking about me because I’m not smart enough”. The list goes on and on and on, picking up speed from TV or bad experiences, or your friends and co-workers. Then you pass all of that on to your kids! All of this is done without your consent or conscious knowledge. But before we go any further, let me say, good things are passed along as well.
“You’re such a pretty girl.”
“You’re the smartest kid in your class.” “You can do anything you put your mind to.”
From the time we are born until the time we die, we are building a silent but active inner life. When we are children, our parents feed into it, and by the time we are teenagers, we have developed a personality completely comprised of our parents’ thoughts, fears, and beliefs, no matter how much we rebel against it. Then we go out into the world, and we begin to have our own experiences, but they are still governed by what we learned as children, and those voices continue to remind us of who we are supposed to be according to our parents thoughts, fears, and beliefs. “You can’t do that.” “You’ll
The point is, inner chatter, good or bad, is always speaking in our head, and we are always unconsciously responding to it. That having been said, isn’t it a good idea to take the time to listen to yourself? Sit in a quiet space where you won’t be interrupted and listen to what is being fed into your existence. Then decide which thoughts you want to keep and which ones you want to dismiss. That’s right, you get to choose! You can steer the direction of your life simply by spending time with yourself, choosing which thoughts you want to keep and which ones you want to discard. Then keep checking in to make sure those thoughts you threw out didn’t sneak back in.
Inner chatter is normal for everyone. What you allow to direct your life is completely up to you! Tune in and cleanse the chatter so you can have the life you’ve always dreamed of!
So, if you really want your life to change for the better, it begins by “Thinking Outside the Box.”
COMMUNITY
CITY COUNCIL RECAP: JANUARY 6, 2026
The City of Baldwin City Council met in regular session on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, at the Baldwin City Community Center, with outgoing Mayor Casey Simoneau presiding.
Council members present included Jay King, Susan Pitts, Cory Venable, Scott Lauridsen, and Julie Constantinescu. City staff and public safety officials were also in attendance.
Farewells And Swearing-In Ceremony
The meeting included special presentations recognizing the service of outgoing Councilmember Susan Pitts and Mayor Casey Simoneau. Mayor Simoneau thanked his family, city staff, the council, and the community for their support during his eight years in office, noting the collective effort behind Baldwin City’s growth and community projects.
Councilmember Pitts reflected on her eight years of service, thanking fellow council members and city staff, whom she described as “the heartbeat of the city.” Mayor Simoneau presented Pitts with engraved gifts in appreciation of her service.
Councilmember Scott Lauridsen presented Mayor Simoneau with a plaque and commemorative gavel, recognizing his leadership and dedication to the city. Simoneau thanked the council and community for their continued support.
City Clerk Amara Packard then administered the oath of office to returning Councilmember Jay King, newly elected Councilmember Peter Wentz, and newly elected Mayor Gerald Cullumber. Mayor Cullumber thanked Simoneau for his guidance and emphasized respect, collaboration, and forward progress as priorities for the new council.
Council Organization and Appointments
As part of annual organizational business, the council elected Scott Lauridsen to serve as Council President for 2026, approving the nomination unanimously.
Peter Wentz was appointed as Baldwin City’s representative to the Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO), which oversees long-range transportation planning, bike and pedestrian plans, and safety initiatives across
Ordinances and Development Items
The council approved Ordinance No. 1529, granting a conditional use permit for a short-term rental at 920 Grove Street. Following discussion, the ordinance was amended to remove references to Airbnb while maintaining the shortterm rental designation. Council members and residents discussed enforcement challenges and the need for future policy clarity regarding short-term rentals. The ordinance passed unanimously.
The council also approved the final plat for a proposed daycare facility located at Ridge Lane and N. 400 Road. The plat had previously received approval from the Planning Commission and met all city requirements.
Ordinance No. 1530, establishing the Municipal Cost Index (MCI) for utilities, was approved with an effective date adjustment. Council members agreed to delay implementation until February 1 to allow review of the full fiscal year. Discussion included anticipated utility rate impacts for 2026, including an 8.9% water rate pass-through.
Committee Reports and Looking Ahead
Committee updates included ongoing budget and finance discussions related to utility rates, potential grants for lake improvements, and the possibility of moving forward with spillway work. A public rate forum is expected to be held prior to the first council meeting in February. Community members are invited to join city staff and elected officials for a presentation about Baldwin City’s utilities and rates at 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday, February 3, at the Baldwin City Community Center, located at 712 Chapel Street. The forum will provide an opportunity for residents to learn more about the city’s utilities and ask questions.Mayor Cullumber noted that committee assignments may be adjusted under the new council and said affected members would be contacted in the coming week.
The meeting adjourned at 8:14 p.m.
FORUM ON 2026 UTILITY RATES
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 3 6:00 P.M.
BALDWIN CITY COMMUNITY CENTER 712 CHAPEL STREET
RESIDENTS ARE INVITED TO ATTEND A COMMUNITY FORUM FOCUSED ON BALDWIN CITY’S UTILITIES AND PROPOSED RATES FOR 2026. CITY STAFF AND ELECTED OFFICIALS WILL PROVIDE A PRESENTATION AND BE AVAILABLE TO ANSWER QUESTIONS FROM THE PUBLIC.
THE FORUM WILL TAKE PLACE AT 6:00 P.M. ON TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 3, AT THE BALDWIN CITY COMMUNITY CENTER, LOCATED AT 712 CHAPEL STREET.
THIS FORUM OFFERS AN OPPORTUNITY FOR COMMUNITY MEMBERS TO LEARN MORE ABOUT HOW UTILITY RATES ARE DETERMINED AND TO ENGAGE DIRECTLY WITH CITY LEADERSHIP.
IF YOU WANT A SHORTER CALENDAR BLURB OR A MORE CONVERSATIONAL VERSION FOR SOCIAL MEDIA, I CAN ADJUST IT QUICKLY.
Douglas County. Baldwin City will hold voting rights within the MPO during 2026.
26
TEXTILE AS ART: BY GARY KELLER AT THE LUMBERYARD ARTS CENTER
Story by Cathenry
By now, locals have likely heard the buzz and noticed the fliers around town announcing the Lumberyard Arts Center’s month-long celebration of textile art. And what better time than winter, when the warmth and comfort of quilts feel especially meaningful. With Baldwin City recognized as the quilt capital of Kansas, it only makes sense to showcase these works during National Textile Month, wrapping our community in an experience of artistry.
Twenty-three vibrant quilts are featured at the art center under the title “The Unintentional, Incidental and Accidental Quilter” by town resident Gary L. Keller. Don’t let the whimsical title fool you. Gary’s meticulous attention to detail tells a story of its own. His quilting journey reflects constant discovery, experimentation, and love for the unexpected.
Gary began quilting in 2001 and honed a distinctive style defined by bold color, intricate piecing, and a creative edge of risk-taking in his layout and design through contrast and texture. He is inspired by nature, literature, and the expressive way colors work together. His textile art ranges from dramatic center panels to replicas of art conveyed through textile to geometric patterns. His creative signature often includes subtle embellishments with beading, the use of colored inks, and painting on the fabric to enhance his work.
Being self-taught, his first introduction to quilting was paper piecing, where he learned that garment construction doesn’t directly relate to the art of quilting. He initially caught the sewing bug from his sister, Cheryl.
He leapt into his craft with a commission to create a bedroom quilt ensemble, complete with window treatments fashioned from over 100 different fabrics pieces. The customer’s only request: use as much color as possible.
A Midwest native, Gary’s previous experience in scenic and set design for theatrical productions, his costume creations, his background in floral design, and his oil painting on canvas all influence his craft.
Many also know Gary as an educator and performing musician. His career has spanned collaboration with solo artists, Broadway performers, and singers from the Metropolitan Opera. As an accompanist, he has worked with schools, coached soloists and ensembles, and dedicated a lifetime to serving as a church musician, organist, and choral director.
His plethora of experience, stitch by stitch, is “Much like quilting, my musical life has been shaped by patience, discipline, precision and the quiet joy of bringing many individual elements into a harmonious whole,” says Gary. Gary became even more prolific in quilt creation at his home studio during the pandemic. His works have
been shown at the Maple Leaf Quilt Show, the Overland Park Midwest Quilt Festival, and in Eudora and Ottawa. He has won blue ribbons at the Douglas County fair and the Vinland fair. He is part of local quilting guilds for the networking and for innovation.
COMMUNITY
• Quilt from your heart, but execute that with your eyes and your hands.
Brenda Weien, proprietor of Brenda’s Long Arm quilting services in Ottawa, does the quilting on Gary’s works of art. Typically, his quilt sizes range from queen to king size and work beautifully as wall hangings. Gary and Brenda have collaborated for over 20 years. She comments, “I thoroughly enjoy working with Gary; it is such a pleasure. His work is more artistic than the traditional quilts. I love how he thinks outside the box when creating them. He takes me with him through his creation, and I get to quilt his work! He solicits and values my opinion.”
Through the years, Gary has developed a philosophy of witticism and advice from quilting:
• Unlike bomb deactivation, in quilting, you get multiple chances to try and get it right.
• Know we all may see the same things but perceive them so very differently.
• An artist’s eye is unique, a one-of-a-kind outlook.
• Never start a project that you don’t believe you will love. Life is too short to waste that much time only to become disappointed and frustrated without loving it.
• Be positive in all that you do, and if you can’t, at least keep your sense of humor about you. You will most definitely need it.
• Don’t be skimpy when buying fabric. If you love it that much, so will others. It may not be there when you return.
• If you see it, like it, and can afford it: Buy it then and there. If it’s on sale, then it’s a bonus.
• Allow yourself to freely express your vision to inspire others through your work.
• It’s never too late to start doing anything. I’m older, living proof.
• If you question or doubt something, never secondguess your intuition, ask a friend, and hope for the confirmation you seek.
• True friends should support and affirm your actions and thoughts. Remember to return the favor.
• Never be too busy to pause and offer compliments. It feels really terrific, too.
• The best compliment: wanting to make your version of a project that your best friend is currently creating. Imitation is the greatest flattery.
• Cultivate lots of ideas, some of them might even be OK, one or two might even be exceptional.
• Too much of the same can be boring; always look for exceptional contrast, that’s what sets your work apart and accentuates what you love.
• Don’t be afraid to make mistakes; it’s the best way to learn.
• Kindness and grace win over friends and even others who aren’t nearly so friendly.
• Never pass up an opportunity to encourage and nurture development and growth, particularly those younger and inexperienced.
• Realize we all have an artistic vision to share, and there are those who are dying to see ours, so they, emboldened, may share theirs as well. Wherever you are on your quilt journey, many have already blazed the path ahead, and those who want to merely follow in your footsteps,
• Love what you do. It will show that love will spread to others. Allow them to admire your leadership in strength and passion.
• Always be inspiring and a good model. Someone is always watching.
• Know your favorite colors, but learn how to use them and love them all.
• Discover the color that gives you energy, inspiration, and great joy. Embrace and utilize it. It will never disappoint.
• Never apologize or be critical of your work. Detractors may do so, but at their own risk.
• A missed opportunity to give a compliment could become a disappointment greater than any shortage of time.
• Be inspiring and confident but never allow confidence to overshadow your humility.
• If you aren’t nice enough yet never fear, there is still time remaining.
• Embrace change as a positive thing. It’s character building.
• Learn to accept a compliment; you’ve earned it. An open reception, held on Jan 9, launched the monthlong show in Baldwin City. This Friday, Jan. 31, an Artist Talk mix & mingle from 11:00 to 12:30pm is scheduled, followed by a community conversation on shaping Kansas quilting tourism and culture from 2 to 3 pm. Reservations required. RSVP at 785.594.3186. The events are free and held at the Lumberyard Arts Center, 718 High St. The show runs until February 7. Lumber Arts Center hours are Wed-Fri from 1 to 5pm and on Saturday from 10am to noon.
QUILTS OF LOVE
Baldwin City has the honor of being the “Quilt Capitol” of Kansas. Many people spend time making quilts; one such group makes patriotic quilts and presents them to veterans. Through their hard work, they give a gift of
love on Veterans Day to veterans, demonstrating their appreciation for their service. I feel honored to own one of these quilts.
A quilt shop is in Baldwin City, where one can buy supplies for quilting. It is a place that contains
beautiful material, patterns, classes, and is a place of shared interest. Whether you consider quilting a craft, an art, or a hobby, it is a way to transform those bits and pieces into something that has always been about creating “quilts of love.”
In my mother’s time, they were no less so, but they were also a necessity. In a time when nothing was wasted, and very little was bought, women made quilts to keep their families warm, to give as gifts, and yes, to compete a little. They gathered scraps of cloth from their sewing and from family and neighbors’ sewing scraps, and those scraps were seamlessly made into pieces of art. One such example was my mother, from the Vinland class of 1928, who invited a niece to her home to pick out a quilt as a wedding gift. She let her look through the many quilts my mother had made, and the young woman exclaimed when she found one that included scraps from a favorite dress that her mother had made for her sixteenth birthday. You know which quilt she picked!
My mother, in her lifetime, made 119 “quilts of love,” each sewn with artistry.
I currently sleep under #110, a king-size beauty which she let me pick out. I took many pictures of her quilts over the years, and eventually I took a picture of those pictures. I had a puzzle made of the picture. Putting it together was, in a small way, like piecing a quilt. Bit by bit, I saw something lovely develop. Quilts are pieces of people’s stories, and if you are lucky enough to have a quilter in your family, they provide us not with a covering, but a cover that is a “quilt of love.”
(Top left) A collection of photographs capturing 119 “quilts of love” made by Leroy’s mother throughout her lifetime; (above) Quilt #110 that Leroy displays on his own bed.
Story by Leroy Holman
FREE “PARENT PROJECT” PROGRAM OFFERS SUPPORT FOR FAMILIES OF STRONG-WILLED TEENS
The Youth Services Division of Douglas County Criminal Justice Services is offering a free, in-person parenting program this spring designed to support families navigating the challenges of raising strong-willed teens.
“The Parent Project” is a 10-week program open to parents, grandparents, and caregivers of youth ages 10 and older who live in Douglas County. The program will run every Tuesday from 5:30 to 7 p.m., beginning February 17 and concluding April 28. Classes will be held at 1006 New Hampshire Street in Lawrence, with nearby parking available in the New Hampshire Parking Garage and free bus service available throughout 2026. The program is offered at no cost to participants.
The Parent Project is designed to address some of the most pressing issues facing families today, including youth substance use, depression, social media addiction, bullying, ADHD, and exposure to online predators. The curriculum focuses on practical, real-world tools that help caregivers strengthen family relationships while
setting clear expectations and boundaries.
Throughout the 10-week course, participants will learn strategies to prevent or intervene in alcohol and drug use, improve school attendance and performance, establish expectations at home, and develop action plans to address destructive behaviors. The program also emphasizes communication skills and consistent follow-through to help families reduce conflict and build healthier dynamics.
According to program materials, The Parent Project is built on the belief that strong, loving families are the foundation of a thriving community. By equipping caregivers with effective tools and support, the program aims to strengthen families while addressing challenges before they escalate.
The program is sponsored by Douglas County Criminal Justice Services – Juvenile Services and is open to all Douglas County residents.
To register for The Parent Project or to ask questions, interested participants may email parentproject@dgcoks. gov or call 785-331-1300.
EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT HOSTING EXTREME HEAT READINESS WORKSHOP
Douglas County Emergency Management is hosting an Extreme Heat Readiness Workshop from 9 a.m. to noon Monday, March 9, in Flory Meeting Hall at the Douglas County Fairgrounds, 2120 Harper St.
The free workshop will cover how to recognize health-related illnesses, understand National Weather Service alerts, adjust operations safely and communicate effectively during periods of extreme heat. The training is geared toward local businesses, chambers of commerce, event organizers, leaders of sporting and recreation events, and communications professionals.
“With thousands of visitors expected in our community for World Cup events this summer, we want to make sure local organizations feel confident and prepared,” Deputy Emergency Management Director John Stipetich said. “Extreme heat is something we can plan for, and this workshop gives businesses and event organizers practical steps to keep residents and visitors safe when temperatures rise.”
The workshop will include a panel discussion, followed by facilitated group conversations and “what-if” scenarios that ask participants to think through how they would respond in real-world situations. Scenario topics will include:
• Safely managing outdoor events
• Keeping customers and staff safe in busy retail and hospitality settings
• Communicating effectively
The event is offered in partnership with Lawrence-Douglas County Fire and Medical, Douglas County Sustainability, National Weather Service, Lawrence-Douglas County Public Health, and Lawrence Parks, Recreation and Culture. Registration is open through March 4 at https://dgcoks.gov/form/heatworkshop.
BCRC UPDATES:
SPRING SOCCER REGISTRATION:
Let’s kick it. Registration for Youth Spring Soccer is now open.
New for Spring 2026: All teams for 3rd grade and up will be split by gender. If there are not enough boys or girls to form separate teams, players will be combined into a co-ed team. Kindergarten through 2nd grade teams will remain co-ed.
MICRO SOCCER REGISTRATION
Registration is now open for Micro Soccer. This program introduces children ages 2–4 to the basic skills of soccer in a fun, age-appropriate environment designed to build confidence, coordination, and a love for the game.
ADULT VOLLEYBALL SPRING LEAGUE
So nice, we’re serving it twice. After a successful winter season, the Adult Volleyball League returns this spring. The league runs March 29 through May 3, with no games on Easter Sunday. Games will be played Sunday evenings at Baldwin High School, with a guaranteed 10-game season.
TACOS AND TEQUILA CASINO NIGHT
Who’s ready to taco-bout teachers? The second annual Tacos and Tequila Night takes place February 7 and features El Patron tacos, tequila tastings, an exhibit of BEF-funded classroom grants, and a new casino night experience. Proceeds benefit the Baldwin Education Foundation’s Teacher Assistance Grant program, which supports classroom needs beyond standard budgets.
DADDY-DAUGHTER DANCE
Turn down the lights and turn up the glow. The 2026 Daddy-Daughter Dance is almost here, featuring glow sticks, music, treats, and a dance floor made for memory-making. Registration opens Wednesday, January 14. More details coming soon.
COMMUNITY CENTER RENTALS
The Baldwin City Community Center is now accepting graduation party reservations, with new rental rates available. The facility includes a warming kitchen, recreation room with PS5 and golf/soccer simulator, and ample tables and chairs—perfect for reunions, birthday parties, celebrations, and more.
COMMUNITY
IF: LOCAL – FOR SUCH A TIME TO BRING WOMEN TOGETHER AT WORDEN CORNERSTONE CHURCH
Women of all ages are invited to gather for a full day of connection, worship, and community during IF: Local – For Such a Time, coming to Worden Cornerstone Church on Saturday, February 28.
The free event runs from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and is designed to create space for women to come together locally while joining a global movement of faith through IF:Gathering. For more than a decade, IF:Gathering has focused on one simple mission: women gathering to know God and make Him known.
The day will begin with doors opening at 9:00 a.m., featuring a variety of local vendors offering shopping opportunities through 1:00 p.m. Lunch will be provided for attendees from 11:30 a.m. to 12:45 p.m.
At 1:00 p.m., worship will begin, followed by the IF:One Night simulcast, streaming live from Dallas. The simulcast includes teaching, worship, and prayer and will run through the afternoon. Vendor shopping will resume following the worship portion of the event.
Organizers describe the day as both a “Ladies Day Out” and a meaningful time of discipleship, rooted in the belief that
women using their gifts locally can make a lasting impact in their communities. The event theme, For Such a Time, reflects that calling.
In addition to welcoming attendees, Worden Cornerstone Church is also seeking local vendors to participate in the event. Vendor hours will be from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Vendors are asked to provide their own tables and setup. A $10 suggested donation per booth will go toward the church’s Fellowship Hall and Youth Building Fund. Those interested in becoming a vendor or who have questions may contact Kim Bergan at 785-393-2720 or by email at kbergan@eckce.com
Vendor registration forms should be completed and returned via email.
IF: Local – For Such a Time will take place at Worden Cornerstone Church, located at 298 E. 900 Road in Baldwin City. The event is free to attend, and women are encouraged to register in advance.
Organizers say they are excited to once again host a Ladies Day Out at Worden, with the hope of fostering faith, friendship, and encouragement among women across the community.
Email: jenni@ baldwinmaple.com
COMMUNITY
CATS & DOGS “PAWS TO SERVE” BRINGS COMMUNITY TOGETHER FOR DAY OF SERVICE
On Monday, January 19, Baldwin City once again saw “cats and dogs living together”—this time in the best possible way.
The Baldwin Education Foundation hosted its Second Annual “Paws to Serve” Day of Service, bringing together Baker University “Cats” and Baldwin “Dogs” of all ages to serve the community side by side. The event took place from 9:30 a.m. to noon, with participants gathering at Baldwin First United Methodist Church at 7th and Grove.
Held on a national day of service, Paws to Serve welcomed students, families, and community members for a morning focused on generosity, collaboration, and connection. While students had the opportunity to earn volunteer hours, organizers emphasized that the heart of the event was community impact.
“This was really about connection,” said Kelley Bethel-Smith, Executive Director of the Baldwin Education Foundation. “It was about neighbors coming together and doing some good.”
A Growing Tradition
This year marked the second Paws to Serve event organized by BEF. The concept grew from the Foundation’s desire to lead not only in fundraising, but also in giving back directly to the community that so strongly supports local schools.
Bethel-Smith shared that the idea was inspired by past community service traditions, BEF’s mission-driven goals, and a lighthearted cultural moment that sparked the event’s name. The concept of Baker WildCATS and Baldwin BullDOGS serving together quickly resonated with community partners.
The event gained momentum through collaboration with Baker University and USD 348, resulting in strong participation from both students and residents.
Projects That Met Real Needs
Volunteers worked on a wide range of service projects identified through outreach to local organizations and knowledge of ongoing community needs. Projects completed during the event included:
• A community food pantry drive and pantry clean-up
• Outdoor trash pick-up and recycling efforts
• Assistance projects for local organizations, including the Lumberyard Arts Center and Baldwin City Recreation Commission
• Valentines for seniors at all four local residential facilities
• Treat bags for local first responders
• Kindness kits assembled for Lawrence Memorial Hospital
• Letters and coloring sheets created for deployed troops through Operation Gratitude
Organizers also encouraged community members to share additional service needs related to the City of Baldwin, USD 348, and Baker University, reinforcing the event’s flexible and responsive approach.
Serving Side by Side
A defining feature of Paws to Serve was its multigenerational nature. Participants ranged from young children to college students to longtime community members,
all working together throughout the morning.
“Creating a sense of belonging is central to BEF’s mission,” Bethel-Smith said. “When people from different schools, organizations, and age groups serve together, it helps build understanding and strengthens our community.”
Community Support Made It Possible
Light refreshments were provided during the event, along with a T-shirt giveaway sponsored by Baldwin City Made, Prairie Psychiatric Care, and the Brenda Shawley Memorial Fund. Sponsorships helped cover project supplies and reinforced the message that “Cats and Dogs” of all ages can work together to serve Baldwin City.
As Bethel-Smith shared, the event reflected a guiding belief of the Foundation: “When one of us wins, we all BaldWIN.”
By the end of the morning, participants left feeling uplifted by what could be accomplished in just a few hours—proof that when a community pauses to serve, meaningful impact follows.
