BALDWIN CITY WELCOMES VISITORS FROM SISTER CITY IN SOUTH AFRICA
striking similarities—rural communities of similar size, a focus on local heritage, and an appreciation for the arts, including a love of quilting that has become a symbolic link between the two.
On July 16, the Lumberyard Arts Center came alive with color, creativity, and cross-cultural connection as Baldwin City welcomed visitors from its sister city of Riviersonderend, South Africa. Organized by BCK United in partnership with The Light Center, the gathering served as a meaningful cultural exchange between youth and community members from both sides of the globe.
The event was centered around a visit from Lucien Deelman, a 19-year-old from Riviersonderend, and his traveling companion, Theolene Baartman. The two were in Kansas to attend the International Youth of Unity conference and made time to visit Baldwin City through an invitation extended by Robin Goff, founder of The Light Center. Recognizing the opportunity
to deepen the existing sister city connection, Goff reached out to BCK United to coordinate a gathering during their stay.
Hosted at BCK United’s home base, the Lumberyard Arts Center, the event brought together a small but lively group of about 15 participants. Teens and adults alike gathered to create colorful prayer flags—each decorated with uplifting messages or symbols of kindness, hope, and encouragement. Messages like “Love Yourself,” “Bee Happy,” “Spread Love,” and “Ubuntu”—a South African term meaning “I am because we are”— reflected the shared values of compassion and connection. These flags will be strung together and taken back to South Africa, where they will be displayed during upcoming youth camps.
Following the creative activity, the group shared snacks and spent time simply enjoying one another’s company. Conversations flowed easily, with teens bonding over music, movies, and mutual interests. The event provided a space for genuine connection, where participants could be themselves and experience the joy of discovering common ground with someone from another part of the world.
This gathering was just one moment in a much longer relationship between Baldwin City and Riviersonderend. The sister city connection, now two decades strong, began as a response to the AIDS orphan crisis in South Africa. Over the years, the relationship has evolved through youth leadership camps, quilt exchanges, and school partnerships. Both towns share
The July 16 event was more than just a craft activity—it was a demonstration of what international friendship can look like at the local level. It offered Baldwin City youth the chance to experience cultural exchange firsthand, to represent their community with openness and kindness, and to take part in something larger than themselves. Events like these not only strengthen bonds between cities but also foster empathy, understanding, and a sense of belonging in a broader world community.
As Lucien and Theolene return to South Africa with Baldwin-made prayer flags and heartfelt memories, the spirit of unity they helped cultivate continues to ripple through the local community— proof that friendship truly knows no borders.
Participants from Baldwin City and Riviersonderend, South Africa, gathered at the Lumberyard Arts Center on July 16 to create prayer flags, share stories, and build cross-cultural friendships as part of an ongoing Sister City exchange.
LOCAL TALK ON THE FOUNDING OF BAKER UNIVERSITY & BALDWIN CITY
History buffs and Baldwin City locals alike are invited to dive deep into the town’s roots during a special event next Saturday, July 26, at the Baldwin City Public Library. As part of the “Our Local History” series, the Library is teaming up with the Santa Fe Trail Historical Society of Douglas County to present a talk by Professor John Richards of Baker University.
The presentation will focus on the early challenges of establishing both Baker University and the town of Baldwin City, as chronicled in the book Baker Lands by local author Katherine Burke Graziano. Through original documents, personal stories, and historical context, Professor Richards will highlight the resilience and vision of the area’s early founders.
In celebration of this local history, all attendees will receive a free copy of Baker Lands to take home.
The event is free and open to the public and promises to be both educational and inspiring for anyone interested in the rich history of Baldwin City and its enduring connection to Kansas education and community building.
A MESSAGE FROM SUPERINTENDENT MARK DODGE
Dear Baldwin Families,
Registration for the 2025-2026 school year is now open! The registration process has changed slightly for returning students. To begin registration, log in to the PowerSchool Parent Portal at https:// usd348.powerschool.com or open the PowerSchool app on your phone and choose Forms. This video will walk you through the process. In addition to the registration forms, 7th-12th grade families who have not yet filled out athletic paperwork can do so online if desired. Choose the “General” tab under Forms to find the online athletic forms.
If your family has a new student to add this school year, we are excited to introduce a new pre-registration website that we hope will make this process easier. This video will walk you through the process and help prepare you to register your new student.
If your family is not returning to USD 348 this fall, please let each school know by calling your child’s school or emailing the Principal.
If you have questions during the process please call your child’s school during regular hours.
BESPC 785-594-2444
BESIC 785-594-2446
BJHS 785-594-2448
BHS 785-594-2725
If you do not have internet access or a computer at home, each school will have computers available for you to complete registration during regular hours. Please call ahead of time so they can prepare.
We encourage families to register between now and August 4, 2025, to allow our schools time to add students to class lists, develop transportation routes, and prepare devices for students.
BHS and BJHS students will once again be assessed a mandatory $15 fee that will provide each student with a school-issued ID card to be used for student admission at no additional cost to all home BJHS and BHS athletic activities, with the exception of KSHSAA postseason games. We are excited to see our students at our events, showing pride in their school and community, while supporting their classmates in competition.
User fees for participating in sports and activities will be assessed after the rosters are set and must be paid before
the first competition. The curriculum and activity fee must be paid before user fees for sports and activities can be accepted.
You may pay fees by credit card (Visa, MasterCard, or Discover) or e-check online. If you do not want to pay online you may bring or mail a check to a school. If mailing, please address the envelope with the School’s Name, P.O. Box 67, Baldwin City, KS 66006. If you have children in more than one school, you can write one check for the total.
Some fees will be reduced or waived if you have applied and qualified for free or reduced lunch AND given your consent to disclose your status. As you complete registration, you will find the Free and Reduced Lunch form. It will have a link to the online lunch application as well as the Consent for Disclosure. If you do not wish to apply online, you can download a copy of these two forms from our website, or pick up a paper copy at your student’s school. Even if you are unsure if you will qualify, please submit an application.
If you have already received notification that your family is eligible for free or reduced-price meals for the 20252026 school year due to direct certification, follow the instructions provided. Families who do not qualify for free meals will be responsible for paying for their child(ren)’s meals. Money for meals can be added online at https:// linqconnect.com. Your previous username and passwords will continue to work and money you have left from last school year will remain. Check the district website for meal pricing information and information on LinqConnect.
Breakfast before school is available for pre-K to 8th-grade students and a “second chance” breakfast is offered at the Junior High and High Schools. Meal
times are available in student handbooks and on building websites.
Important Dates:
August 13 – students in 6th grade and 9th grade have orientations and K through 5th grades begin classes for a half day in the morning.
August 14 – Full day of classes for all students in K-12.
August 18 – students in PreK begin classes.
The district continues to use BrightArrow for communications to parents. The BrightArrow Mobile app has been replaced with the ParentHub app (by BrightArrow). This app will give you access to district, school, and classroom communications all in one spot.
Thank you so much for your support of Baldwin Schools. We cannot wait to see your students in our halls and classrooms! Mark Dodge Superintendent
ORDINANCE NO. 1513
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 15-218 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 customer charge 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 July 1, 2025 usage, a monthly energy charge of $0.1540 per kilowatt hour of metered energy use for all residential class customers, the
c) A Power Cost Adjustment, as provided in section 15-231, 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 customer charge 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 July 1, 2025 usage, a monthly energy charge of $0.1540 per kilowatt-hour of metered energy use for all business-class customers, then
c) A Power Cost Adjustment, as provided in section 15-231, 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 July 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 July 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 15-231, 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 customer charge of zero ($00.00) dollars per meter, plus
b) Effective with July 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 July 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 15-231, 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 customer charge of $00.00 per meter, plus
b) Effective with July 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 July 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 15-231, 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 customer charge of $0.00 per meter, plus
b) Effective with July 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 July 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 15-231, 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 customer charge 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 July 1, 2025 usage, a monthly energy charge of $0.1622 per kilowatt-hour of metered energy use for club/sorority/fraternity-class customers, then
c) A Power Cost Adjustment, as provided in section 15-231, 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 July 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 July 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 15-231, 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 customer charge of $25.00 per meter, plus
b) Effective with July 1, 2025 usage, a monthly energy charge of $0.1540 per kilowatt-hour of metered energy use for city-
class customers, then
c) A Power Cost Adjustment, as provided in section 15-231, 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 customer charge of $25.00 per meter for customers inside the city limits, plus
b) Effective with July 1, 2025usage, a monthly energy charge of $0.1540 per kilowatt-hour of metered energy use for church-class customers, then
c) A Power Cost Adjustment, as provided in section 15-231, 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 15th day of July, 2025.
APPROVED:
Casey Simoneau, Mayor ATTEST:
Amara Packard, City Clerk State of Kansas City
FROZEN JR. PERFORMANCE SHOWCASES THE TALENTS OF BALDWIN’S YOUNG PERFORMERS
The Baldwin High School auditorium came alive with music, laughter, and the magic of Arendelle as local students took the stage for a special performance of Disney’s Frozen Kids—capping off a weeklong musical theatre camp that drew young performers, volunteers, and enthusiastic audiences.
Led by Ms. Jacobsen, the production served as both a community event and a fundraiser for the BHS Fall Musical program. Students spent the week learning songs, choreography, and staging with the help of dedicated high school mentors, volunteers, and staff. The result was a heartwarming, high-energy show that highlighted the creativity, talent, and teamwork of Baldwin’s youth.
“It was a wonderful evening of music, choreography, and acting that truly showcased the talents of our students,” said Ms. Jacobsen.
“The future is bright for BHS Musicals!”
With tickets priced at just $5, families and community members filled the auditorium to cheer on the cast and crew. Despite construction affecting parking, the event drew a strong turnout and generous support from those eager to back the arts.
From singing snowmen to dazzling snowflake effects, Frozen Kids was a smashing success and a reminder of the incredible value of arts education and community collaboration. Organizers extended a heartfelt thank you to everyone who attended, volunteered, or donated their time and skills to make the experience possible.
The Baldwin City community can look forward to more exciting performances ahead, as BHS continues to build its musical theater program—one standing ovation at a time.
BALDWIN CITY BUSINESSES ENCOURAGED TO PREPARE FOR WORLD CUP 2026 BOOM
As the countdown to the FIFA World Cup 2026 continues, the Baldwin City Chamber of Commerce is urging local businesses to get ready for what could be a once-in-a-lifetime economic opportunity.
Kansas City is one of just 16 U.S. cities selected to host matches during the international event, and the ripple effects will be felt throughout the entire region— including right here in Baldwin City.
Representing both the Baldwin City Chamber of Commerce and The Maple, Event Director and Publisher Jenni Fish recently attended the Business Readiness Forum for the 2026 World Cup, held July 17 at the KU Innovation Park in Lawrence. The full-day seminar, hosted by Kira Chereé Cobb of the Actuate Consulting Team and The Chamber, Lawrence, brought together business owners, municipal leaders, and state agencies to discuss how Kansas communities can capitalize on the global spotlight.
Why It Matters Locally
Kansas City will host six matches on the following dates: June 16, June 20,
June 25, June 27, July 3, and July 11, 2026. While the matches themselves will take place at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium, the economic impact will extend far beyond city limits. An estimated 3.5 billion global fans and 250 million players will be tuning in, with many expected to travel to the region.
Baldwin City could see significant foot traffic—especially if Lawrence is selected as a “Base Camp” for one of the international teams. A Base Camp serves as a team’s home base for training, lodging, and media access throughout the tournament. If Lawrence is chosen, Baldwin City could see a six-week influx of international visitors during the summer of 2026.
What Local Businesses Should Know
According to projections shared at the forum, visitor spending during the World Cup could generate $650,000 or more in regional revenue, presenting a major opportunity for small businesses, restaurants, and event organizers.
Business owners are encouraged to:
Apply to be vendors at official World Cup events via the Kansas City Host Committee at kansascityfwc26.com/ business-opportunities. (Listings are updated weekly.)
Understand branding and licensing rules. Businesses interested in hosting World Cup watch parties must follow strict guidelines for promotion and obtain proper licenses to display match broadcasts.
The Baldwin City Chamber is forming a planning committee to explore ways to expand existing summer events with World Cup-themed celebrations and public watch parties. The goal is to generate local excitement while capturing the attention of international visitors.
Want to Volunteer for the 2026 World Cup?
FIFA is now accepting applications for volunteers, and it’s a great way to get involved in the action.
Volunteers must be 18 or older by the time of the event
A commitment of nine 8-hour shifts is required
Applications can be submitted at FIFA.com
The deadline to apply is Sept. 15, 2025
Whether you’re passionate about soccer, tourism, or just want to be part of the excitement, volunteering is a meaningful way to contribute to this global event.
Important Milestones to Watch:
June 2025 – Hospitality ticket packages go on sale at FIFA.com
September 2025 – Registration opens for individual match tickets
December 2025 – FIFA Final Draw (this determines match pairings and team placements)
The time to get involved is now. Whether you’re a business owner, volunteer hopeful, or simply a fan of the game, the World Cup presents Baldwin City with a remarkable chance to shine on the international stage.
For questions, event guidelines, or to get involved, contact the Baldwin City Chamber of Commerce.
COMMUNITY
“STUFF THE BUS” RETURNS FOR SECOND YEAR TO SUPPORT BALDWIN STUDENTS AND TEACHERS
With the start of the 2025–2026 school year just around the corner, Baldwin City is once again rallying behind its students and educators through the second annual Stuff the
Bus school supply drive—hosted by Cody Anno State Farm.
From July 21 through August 8, community members are invited to help fill a big yellow school bus with essential school supplies for local students and teachers. As an added boost, all donations of new supplies or cash will be matched by Cody Anno State Farm, doubling the impact and helping reach even more classrooms in need.
Last year’s inaugural event raised an estimated $5,000 in supplies and funds, making a tangible difference for students across the Baldwin City school district.
This year introduces a fun new way to give—sponsoring a seat on the bus:
1 Seat = $100 donation (matched)
1 Bench = $200 donation (matched)
Bus Driver Seat = $500 donation (matched)
Donations can be dropped off in person at 208 Baker Street or sent via Venmo to @Cody_Anno_SF. All contributions, big or small, go directly toward helping Baldwin’s kids head back to school with confidence, fully equipped for the year ahead.
“We were blown away by the generosity last year,” said event organizers. “We hope to build on that momentum and continue showing our students and teachers just how much this community supports them.”
If you’d like a flyer to display at your business or need help with supply ideas, contact Summer at 785-594-0270 or stop by the office on Baker Street.
COMMUNITY CELEBRATES GROUNDBREAKING FOR USD 348 BOND PROJECTS
$17 million school bond passed in May 2024. While construction on parking and traffic flow improvements had already begun, the event celebrated the formal start of the CTE addition—set to be completed in time for the 2026–2027 school year. The expansion will include new spaces for agricultural technology, business,
and
The
On Tuesday evening, July 15, students, faculty, school officials, and community members gathered at the Baldwin High School bus loop to officially break ground on USD 348’s highly anticipated Career Technical Education (CTE) expansion. The ceremony marked the first major milestone in a series of projects funded by the
culinary arts, health sciences,
more, alongside major safety and academic upgrades across the district.
projects are being led by DLR Group and Loyd Builders, and are expected to reshape learning opportunities for Baldwin City students for years to come.
July
8:00 a.m. - 10:30/11:00 a.m. questions? contact hornbergerfarms@gmail.com
COMMUNITY VOICES
LITTLE LIST, BIG MOVE STRENGTH AND COURAGE
DEAR HOMEKEEPER
By Cat Henry
Helping someone move into a place of their own for the first time requires more than just packing boxes—it calls for conversation, curiosity, and a little planning homework.
I’m a list maker; I tried going digital to free myself from floating papers that end up in my back pocket or gather in my purse or kitchen counter! There is something quietly powerful about handwriting lists. It activates more elaborate brain patterns than typing. Something about the physical act of moving your hand creates spatial and temporal rhythms in the brain that boost memory. Hand-writers recall things 25% faster than those who type. Good to know, especially when ironically one out of three times I forget the list at home anyway. Plus, there is that very satisfying moment of crossing things off.
Pro-tip for forgetful hand-writers: snap a photo of your list before heading out, just in case.
I’m not anti-digital (40% use their phones for list making, 63% write on notepads, and 24% use sticky notes). But handwritten or not, the list itself matters, whether it’s a new dorm, apartment, or first shared space; a thoughtfully prepared list eases the nerves and fills the gaps. Digital lists can offer smart features—budget tracking, real-time sharing with others, and even store finders and coupons. The downside of digital is not getting an internet connection, the phone dies, or service drops while shopping.
Here’s a curated list, homekeeper, to help the first-time mover ease into their new space with both practicality and comfort:
Bed & Comfort: Twin XL sheets, Comforter or duvet (with cover), mattress topper (foam or egg crate), mattress protector, pillow(s), throw blanket for extra coziness and a sleeping mask if the roommate is a night owl;
Laundry & Cleaning: Laundry basket or bag, detergent pods or convenient laundry sheets, dryer sheets or wool balls, stain remover pen or spray, disinfecting wipes, iron or portable steamer, a trash receptacle and handheld broom/ dustpan or small hand vacuum;
Bath & Hygiene: Towels (2–3) + washcloths/ mesh bath pouf, shower caddy for shared bathrooms, flip-flops (for communal showers), toiletries (travel or refillable sizes work well), disposable face mask should a viral bug be floating around in close quarters, a toothbrush
with cap cover or proctor, floss, razor, deodorant, shampoo, soap, body wash, hand sanitizer, etc., and nail clippers, nail files tweezers, brush/comb;
(Note: Most likely, this will be a shared living space. Let’s carry forward the lessons the pandemic taught us: respect for boundaries, the value of cleanliness, and the importance of being mindful in communal spaces. (Nothing is worse than being sick and away from home!);
Kitchenette & Snack Zone: Mini fridge or microwave (if allowed), reusable water bottle, coffee maker or kettle, mug, utensils, plate, bowl (disposable or reusable), dish soap and sponge, and nonperishable comforting snacks;
Desk & Tech: laptop, chargers, Extension cord and power strip (surge protected), desk lamp, Noise-canceling headphones, USB thumb drive or external drive, notebooks, pens, folders, planner/calendar, and—if possible a personal printer with paper;
Closet & Storage: Under-bed storage bins or drawers (luggage can be used for storage), Hangers (clip and standard), over-the-door hooks or hanging organizers, Command strips/ hooks for wall storage, soft Shoe rack or small hanging shelf;
Personal Touches: Photos of family/friends, Wall art (removable options like decals), a rug to add warmth and define space, a real plant that acts as an air freshener, (candles are not usually allowed in dorms and confirm sprays are amiable with roommate) and a cozy chair or storage foot stool if space allows; and
Often Overlooked: First aid kit (with bandaids, cold meds, pain relief), Sewing kit or safety pins, Scissors, tape, mini toolkit, Umbrella and rain boots, small fan (for airflow), important documents (ID and copy of others), and any prescription medicine securely kept. These items can be found in your home, and some are easy to gather secondhand or from relatives happy to pass along a few comforts. The best approach? A kind conversation with the soon-to-be mover and a shared list to build together. Until next time, with grace, Cathenry. ch@gmail.com
P.S. Whether handwritten or digital, a good list is more than preparation—it’s reassurance.
JUST ASK ME, I’LL TELL YOU
By Jeanine Ross
We all have a basic idea of what strength and courage look like. In the physical sense, we see strength as a muscular body that can lift an incredible amount of weight and beat up all the bad guys. Courage, as its counter part, (from the outside looking in) looks like someone that isn’t afraid of anything and when others are running away from danger, they rush in! We label those people as hero or muscle bound. It’s true, that’s what both of those things look like and because we are looking at it from the outside, some people will say “I’m not like that” or I could never do that.” And that’s where we lose our way. The truth is, every one of us has strength and courage. It may not show up in a muscular body or running into a burning building to save a kitten, but we all have it.
I have a very dear friend who recently found out her precious, first born, four year old, grandchild has type one diabetes. As every parent knows, there is nothing more helpless than watching your child suffer and not being able to relieve it for them. Well, my friend is a very strong woman. She’s raised two beautiful and productive daughters and she’s been married for thirty five years to an awesome guy with the good sense to marry her and keep her happy for all these years. But now both of them are feeling inadequate and helpless now
and that has only heightend their sorrow. Having been through some devastating times in my own life, I completely understand how frustrated and angry they are. I also understand that there is really nothing well meaning friends can say to make them feel better, so I won’t fill this column with platitudes. Strength and courage are built into every one of us. In you my faithful readers, in you my dear friend and in your precious grandchild. It is easy to give in to your immediate emotions when something terrible happens. We cry and we get angry and we lash our at each other. But the true meaning of strength and courage is to move those feelings aside as soon as you can and actively search for the good in a situation where there seems to be nothing good. The thing is, we don’t know who we were put on this earth to be or what it will take to bring it out of us. In the case of my friend’s grandchild, I’ve met that beautiful and rambunctious little boy and he is something special. As hard as it is right now to see a silver lining in the situation he finds himself in, it could be exactly what he needs to lead him to the greatness he was born to have. Sometimes early life trauma and hardship shape and mold our characters in ways we, as their loving families, could never do, but in ways the person being molded desperately needs to fulfill their journey on this earth. Consider this and be grateful that you and your love for this child, can help in some small way to support his destiny to the greatness he was born to bring to this world. Remember, for as long as we breath air, we are all on the potter’s wheel and be grateful that God’s not finished with him yet.
So, if you really want to know what I think, “Just Ask Me, I’ll Tell You.”
