A BALDWIN CITY NEWSPAPER
LOCAL FIREWORKS SALES SUPPORT SCHOLARSHIPS, ATHLETICS & OTHER PROGRAMS
As Independence Day approaches, fireworks stands are beginning to pop up around Baldwin City. While many shoppers are focused on finding the perfect fireworks for their Fourth of July celebrations, several local organizations hope residents will also consider the impact their purchases can have on the community.
This year, three local fundraising efforts are using fireworks sales to support youth programs, scholarships, athletics and charitable initiatives. Organizers say every purchase helps fund opportunities that benefit Baldwin City residents throughout the year.
Baker Women’s Wrestling Raises Funds for Student-Athletes
The Baker University women’s wrestling program will once again operate a fireworks stand at Corner Liquor, partnering with Garrett’s Fireworks of Osage City.
The stand will be open June 28 through July 4 from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., with extended hours until midnight on July 3 and July 4.
Now in its fourth year, the fundraiser has become one of the program’s three largest annual fundraising efforts, accounting for approximately 15 percent of its yearly fundraising efforts.
Funds raised help support team travel expenses, including hotels, charter buses and meals, as well as team gear, entry fees and special training opportunities such as trips to the Olympic Training Center.
“Collegiate athletics is very expensive, and only gets more and more costly,” organizers said. “Our fundraising efforts help us provide the best experience possible for our student-athletes.”
Volunteers spend weeks coordinating inventory, staffing schedules, setup and cleanup. During the busiest days, additional volunteers are needed to assist customers and keep the operation running smoothly.
BEST and Cub Scouts Team Up for Third Year
BEST, a Baldwin City nonprofit focused on helping youth explore new experiences and opportunities, is partnering with the Cub Scouts for its third annual fireworks fundraiser.
The stand is located at Elite Chiropractic and will operate from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. beginning June 28 through July 4.
The fundraiser supports BEST scholarships, Cub Scout activities and individual fundraising opportunities for local youth participating in sports camps, theater, music programs, school travel and other educational experiences.
Organizers describe the fundraiser as the largest annual fundraising event for both BEST and the Cub Scouts.
Without the proceeds generated through fireworks sales, grants, scholarships and travel awards would be significantly reduced.
More than 20 volunteers are involved, and organizers say they are still looking for additional help throughout the week.
“This is a great learning opportunity for our youth as well as a fundraiser,” organizers said. “The more sales made, the more money is credited to each individual who worked as well as to the group as a whole.”
This year’s stand is operating from a new location. Customers who previously visited the Gorilla Tent in the field will now find the stand at Elite Chiropractic.
Knights of Columbus Continue Long-Running Tradition
For more than 25 years, the Knights of Columbus have operated one of Baldwin City’s longest-running fireworks fundraisers.
Their stand is located next to the Baldwin City Market parking lot and will be open Tuesday through Saturday during the fireworks sales season.
The fundraiser serves as the organization’s largest annual fundraising effort, generating approximately 80 percent of the group’s yearly fundraising revenue.
Proceeds support local charitable causes, scholarships and community activities throughout Baldwin City. Funds also help support programs such as the Knights’ annual Valentine’s Day meal for widows and individuals with disabilities, summer watermelon feeds for local athletic teams and scholarships for students pursuing higher education.
The operation relies on approximately 40 volunteers and requires months of preparation, including ordering inventory, coordinating schedules and managing one of the community’s largest fireworks tents.
The Knights are hoping to surpass last year’s sales totals and continue expanding their support of local programs.
“All of the profits go back into the community to benefit all citizens,” organizers said.
Among the most popular items each year is the organization’s “Godfather Package,” a raffle prize valued at more than $600.
More Than Fireworks
While fireworks are a Fourth of July tradition, organizers from all three fundraising efforts say the real purpose extends far beyond holiday celebrations.
Whether supporting college athletes, helping local youth attend camps and educational programs or funding community service projects and scholarships, each stand provides residents with an opportunity to invest directly in organizations that serve Baldwin City year-round.
For those planning to purchase fireworks this season, organizers hope shoppers will remember that every purchase helps support a local cause long after the last firework fades from the sky.
FIREWORKS INSIDE CITY LIMITS:
June 28–July 2: 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
July 3–4: 10 a.m. to midnight Fireworks are also allowed until midnight on any Friday or Saturday that falls between June 28 and July 4.
No. Bottle rockets and similar fireworks are prohibited within city limits.
Complete fireworks ordinance: https://tinyurl.com/y555y9mn
COMMUNITY
POOL REPAIRS CONTINUE AS CITY AND REC WORK TOWARD REOPENING
The Baldwin City Municipal Pool has remained closed for much of June following an unexpected equipment failure, disrupting swimming lessons, pool parties and summer routines for many local families.
While the closure has been disappointing for residents eager to enjoy the pool during the hottest weeks of summer, Baldwin City Recreation Commission Director Matt McClure said both city and recreation staff have been working diligently behind the scenes to get the facility back open as quickly and safely as possible.
“We certainly appreciate everyone’s patience this summer,” McClure said. “This is not a common occurrence, and I think there was some patience required not only from the public, but from the Recreation Commission and the City of Baldwin City as well.”
A Small Problem Revealed a Much Bigger One
The issue first surfaced on June 7 when staff noticed the pool slide had stopped operating.
Initially, the problem appeared to be a simple tripped breaker. However, after city and recreation staff investigated, they discovered a much larger issue involving the pool’s main circulation pump.
According to McClure, the pool operates using a three-phase pump system. When one of the electrical phases failed, the pump attempted to continue operating on only two phases, causing significant damage to the motor.
“When a three-phase pump tries to run on less than three phases, it will burn up the motor,” McClure explained. “That’s what happened to the pump at the pool.”
The City of Baldwin City, which owns the facility, has led the repair effort while working with a specialized pump company to diagnose and address the problem.
Longer Repairs Than Expected
McClure said the timeline has been longer than many anticipated.
“The City has been working with a pump company to get repairs done as soon as possible,” he said. “It has taken more time to assess, diagnose and repair than I think many anticipated, including both city and BCRC staff.”
Once the repaired pump arrives, installation will take several hours to a full day. Because the pool had to be drained, additional time will be needed to refill the facility and rebalance water chemistry before swimmers can return.
Without a functioning pump, the water becomes stagnant and algae can quickly develop.
“If everything goes perfectly, it will take about five days to get everything back up and ready,” McClure said. Current estimates point toward reopening sometime
during the week of June 29. Because repair timelines can change, residents are encouraged to follow the Baldwin City Recreation Commission Facebook page for the latest updates and reopening information.
Impact on Swimming Lessons and Programs
The closure has affected a significant portion of the summer schedule.
Half of Session I swimming lessons and all of Session II were impacted. Fortunately, recreation staff have been able to restructure the calendar to provide make-up opportunities later in the summer for families who registered.
Recognizing that revised schedules may not work for everyone, the Recreation Commission is also offering refunds when needed.
“We understand the change in schedule may not work for some families,” McClure said.
Pool parties and special events have also been affected. In some cases, the Baldwin City Community Center was offered as an alternative venue, while others received refunds if an alternative could not be arranged.
Several special pool events were lost during the closure, though staff continue evaluating whether some can be worked back into the calendar later this season.
Keeping Staff Ready
One challenge many residents may not have considered is staffing.
McClure said recreation staff made retaining lifeguards and pool employees a priority throughout the closure.
“Could you imagine if we went to open back up and, in the meantime, staff found other jobs?” McClure said. “We were proactive in working to ensure that was not a situation we found ourselves in.”
He praised staff members for maintaining a positive attitude despite the uncertainty.
“Staff has been tremendously positive throughout,” he said.
Financial Effects Still Unknown
The full financial impact of the closure has yet to be determined.
The Recreation Commission expects losses related to swimming lesson refunds, pool passes, pool party reservations and daily admission revenue. However, McClure said it will likely take until the end of the summer to understand the complete picture.
Once an official reopening date is announced, the Recreation Commission plans to work with season pass holders regarding partial refunds corresponding to the days the facility was closed.
Looking Ahead
Despite the setback, McClure emphasized that the pool itself remains in excellent condition.
Over the past several years, the facility has undergone significant improvements, including basin and tile renovations and a transition to a liquid chlorine system completed during the most recent offseason.
“The pool will be as good as ever once we open back up,” McClure said.
Additional improvements are already being planned for the next offseason.
As for extending the pool season beyond its normal closing date, McClure said it remains uncertain. Staffing becomes more difficult as schools resume, and historical attendance patterns suggest weekday use far exceeds weekend traffic later in the summer.
For now, the focus remains on completing repairs and welcoming swimmers back as soon as possible.
“We want the community to know we will continue to work with those impacted by the closure to make sure adjustments, reschedules and refunds are handled quickly and fairly,” McClure said.
Residents with questions about lessons, passes or refunds may contact the Baldwin City Recreation Commission at info@baldwinrec.org or 785-594-3670.
COMMUNITY
APPROVES
REVIEWS LEASE SITUATION
The Baldwin City Council held a relatively brief meeting June 16, approving a new appointment to the Baldwin City Recreation Commission Board, reviewing committee updates and moving routine business forward as city staff continue preparations for the 2027 budget process.
Recreation Commission Board Appointment
The council’s only item of new business was consideration of an appointment to the Baldwin City Recreation Commission Board. The item was listed on the agenda and approved during the meeting.
Lease Discussions Continue to Draw Attention
While no lease action appeared on the June 16 agenda, council members approved new lease terms during their previous June 2 meeting, including lease proposals for both The Bullpen and the Economic Development Corporation.
According to the June 2 minutes included in the council packet, City Administrator Russ Harding provided both tenants with property appraisals and a lease template. During that discussion, council members debated rental rates and tenant responsibilities before ultimately approving lease offers for both properties.
Council also approved an alternative option that would allow both tenants to extend their existing leases through Dec. 31, 2026, without property taxes being added, but with no subsequent lease offered after that date.
The issue has received increased public attention following The Bullpen’s recent announcement that it plans to vacate the city-owned building by the end of the year.
Budget Season Underway
City Administrator Russ Harding reported that staff members and department heads are preparing for upcoming budget discussions. A budget work session is scheduled for June 23 as the city begins developing its next annual budget.
The Budget and Finance Committee is
also continuing its regular meetings, with its next session scheduled for June 18.
Lake Committee Awaiting Grant Decisions
The Lake Advisory Committee reported that it is still waiting to hear back on several grant applications related to Spring Creek Lake. Committee members also noted plans to install additional signage near a steep stairway area to improve visitor safety.
The committee’s next meeting is scheduled for July 7.
Community Updates
During closing comments, Mayor Gerald Cullumber highlighted several recent and upcoming community activities, including the citywide garage sales, Sips on the Square, the Baldwin City Public Library book sale and the recent Sullivan Square sod replacement project completed in partnership with the Baldwin City Recreation Commission.
Cullumber also reminded residents about the citywide cleanup event and announced a Government Day meet-andgreet planned for July 18 at the Baldwin City Community Center. The event is expected to include state and county representatives and provide residents with an opportunity to visit with elected officials.
The council adjourned at 9:18 p.m. after a brief executive session to discuss personnel matters involving non-elected personnel.
Next regular council meeting: July 7.
Publisher’s Note:
The Maple Weekly will be publishing a more in-depth follow-up story on the lease negotiations involving The Bullpen and the future of the city-owned building in the July 13 issue. The story will include additional perspectives from those involved, responses to questions submitted to city officials, and further information about the lease proposals, the decisionmaking process and what may come next for the property.
HOUSE DISTRICT 5 CANDIDATE SIGNS DATA CENTER OVERSIGHT PLEDGE
Kansas House District 5 candidate
Courtney Sappington has signed a pledge supporting increased oversight and transparency for large-scale data center projects in Kansas.
Sappington announced the decision in a recent social media post, stating she was “proud to have signed the candidate pledge to strengthen protections and oversight on data center projects.”
The pledge was released by the advocacy group No Data Centers in Kansas and outlines a series of policy positions related to the review and approval of large-scale data center developments.
According to the document, candidates who sign the pledge agree to support measures aimed at increasing transparency, public participation and independent review of proposed data center projects. The pledge also calls for studies examining impacts on infrastructure, water availability, air quality, noise levels and surrounding communities before major projects receive approval.
Additional provisions include support for public notice requirements, public hearings, ongoing monitoring of resource consumption and zoning standards designed to create separation between large data centers and residential areas, schools, hospitals and nursing facilities.
The pledge further opposes what it describes as preferential treatment or special incentives for hyperscale data centers and emphasizes protecting the long-term needs of Kansas residents and businesses when considering large industrial developments.
In her announcement, Sappington said the document “champions safeguards” intended to protect Kansas communities as data center development continues to expand across the state.
The issue has drawn increasing attention in Douglas County and across Kansas as communities debate the potential economic benefits and infrastructure demands associated with large-scale data center projects.
Sappington is running for the Kansas House of Representatives District 5 seat in the upcoming election.
YOUNG PERFORMERS TAKE CENTER STAGE IN SUMMER THEATRE PRODUCTION
Young Performers Take Center Stage in Summer Theatre Production
After weeks of rehearsals and creative collaboration, the Baldwin City Players Youth Summer Theatre program concluded its 2026 season with a performance of The Journey of Little Red by Samantha Knight.
The family-friendly retelling of the classic Little Red Riding Hood story was presented June 20 and featured a cast of local young performers who gained experience both on stage and behind the scenes.
Directed by Dorian Logan, the production marked another successful season for the youth theatre program, which began in 2023 and continues to grow each year.
More Than Just Acting
According to Logan, one of the program’s unique features is the opportunity for students to participate in nearly every aspect of production.
“What makes this program special is that the children are involved in nearly every aspect of the show,” Logan wrote in the program’s director’s note. “Beyond the performers you see on stage, our cast and crew have helped build sets, create costumes, contribute design ideas and bring this production to life behind the scenes.”
That hands-on approach allows participants to develop confidence, creativity and teamwork skills while learning how a production comes together.
Bringing Little Red to Life
The role of Little Red was shared by Amelia Dorsey, Violet Smith and Olive Capra. Other cast members portrayed a variety of familiar fairy tale characters, creating a fun and engaging performance
THIRD FRIDAY MARKET DRAWS CROWD DOWNTOWN
The first Third Friday Market of the 2026 season brought vendors, live music, community activities and plenty of visitors to downtown Baldwin City on June 19 before an evening rain shower cut festivities a bit short.
Hosted by the Baldwin City Chamber of Commerce and community partners, the market drew strong attendance throughout the evening as residents and visitors gathered to shop, visit local businesses and enjoy a relaxed summer night downtown.
“Overall, it was a fun start to summer with lots of casual, family-friendly fun,” Chamber Director Dana Mullis said. “It’s a wonderful opportunity for citizens of Baldwin and people from the surrounding area to mingle with family, friends and neighbors while staying engaged and connected with their community.”
Community Comes Together Downtown
The market featured approximately 20 vendors along with open storefronts, live music, educational activities and community organizations.
Mullis said attendance was excellent before rain moved into the area later in the evening.
“The weather was actually gorgeous until the rain put a bit of a damper on things,” she said. “Before that, attendance was fantastic, and everyone seemed to be enjoying themselves.”
Third Friday Markets have become one of Baldwin City’s signature community events, drawing people downtown to support local businesses while creating opportunities to connect with friends and neighbors.
“After a week of working, I think people are looking for ways to have some fun and spend time with family or friends that doesn’t require a lot of effort,” Mullis said. “These markets are perfect for that because we do all the planning.”
Mobile Dairy Classroom Draws Young Visitors
One of the evening’s most popular attractions was the Mobile Dairy Classroom presented by Southwest Dairy Farmers.
Children gathered to watch Tempe the dairy cow and learn about the process of milking cows and how milk makes its way from the farm to consumers.
“The kids were very engaged, interested and excited to watch a live cow being milked and learn about milk’s journey from the cow to their cup,” Mullis said.
Because of the cooler temperatures, Tempe was especially active during the presentations, which prompted presenter Kari to offer two demonstrations instead of the single presentation typically scheduled.
Mullis also thanked This & That Baldwin City for hosting the Mobile Dairy Classroom near its patio.
Weather Doesn’t Stop the Market Spirit
Although rain arrived before the evening concluded, organizers noted that events like Third Friday Markets often continue through brief weather interruptions whenever possible.
“Most vendors stick around and would love to see customers again once the rain stops,” Mullis said. “The vendors and storefronts put a lot of time and effort into being there, and it’s nice for it to continue if possible.”
She said the turnout despite the forecast reflects the community’s desire to stay connected and spend time together.
“I think people are generally seeking opportunities to connect with their community, and this is a great opportunity for seeing old friends and making new acquaintances,” she said.
Looking Ahead to July
The next Third Friday Market is scheduled for July 17 and will feature the return of the popular watermelon eating contest, live music by the Pastense Bluegrass Band, food trucks, a Lumberyard Arts Center mural scavenger hunt and a free outdoor movie in Sullivan Square.
Additional markets are scheduled for Aug. 21 and Sept. 18.
Mullis encouraged residents to continue supporting downtown businesses and vendors throughout the season.
“Be sure to support the open storefronts and restaurants as well as the vendors,” she said. “You never know what you might discover.”
Third Friday Markets are sponsored by Baldwin State Bank and Standard Grooming Supply and take place from 6 to 9 p.m. in downtown Baldwin City. More information is available through the Baldwin City Chamber of Commerce website and Facebook page.
TRUSTING YOURSELF
THINKING OUTSIDE THE BOX
By Jeanine Ross
What is trust? The dictionary defines trust as “A firm belief in the reliability of someone or something without proof of evidence.” I’d say that’s a pretty good description, but it goes further than that when trusting yourself is in question. When we believe in others, it’s because something about them seems trustworthy. Perhaps they have shown themselves to be consistent, loyal, and honest, which, of course, inspires trust in all of us. But I wonder how much they trust themselves.
We all look at ourselves from the inside out. We see our flaws and our unsavory habits and our inconsistencies, and we judge our worthiness. More often than not, we find ourselves unworthy, no matter how we may appear to others on the outside. I’d say that makes it almost impossible to truly trust yourselves. But no human is perfect. We all have issues that we will spend the rest of our lives wrestling with. So why do we choose to trust someone else before we trust ourselves?
I grew up in a household where criticism was always the first item on the menu. I used to think that was a bad thing, but what it taught me was to examine myself. My motives, my intentions, my true motivations were always under the microscope. At first, all I saw were flaws and shortcomings. But as I began to develop spiritually, I realized how valuable it was to see myself for who I truly was. I stopped labeling my attributes and started examining them. I let myself off the hook by realizing that no matter how a person looks or acts on the outside, they all had the same doubts and insecurities that I had on the inside. It was a
miraculous revelation! That meant all of the good things and the things I wanted to change about myself (even the most trusted person has those things too) didn’t mean I wasn’t worthy. It made me start thinking about the small circle of people that I trusted, and I realized I had not included myself among them. Why?
Of course, this realization took me on a journey that brought me to this day, to this column, to this article that I trust will help you. Trusting yourself, with all of your flaws and all of your shortcomings and all of your talents, is the only way to be free. Free from negativity, free from self-loathing, free from immobilizing self-deprecation. When you realize none of us is different from the other, no matter how much money they have in the bank or property they own, or how smart they are, or the natural talents they possess, or their fame, or what color they are, or their family connections. None of us is different from the other, and if you can trust outside yourself, you can trust yourself. You can trust that you actually do know what is best for you. You can trust that no matter how strange it may look to someone else, you do know what makes you happy. You can trust that little voice inside yourself that keeps quietly trying to direct you to somewhere you are afraid to go. You can trust that your opinions are valid and real and worth expressing, even if nobody else in your circle gets it. You can trust that little voice when it says, “Maybe you’ve outgrown this circle, and you need a different one.” Trust yourself! Follow that little voice inside and watch your life open up in ways you can’t even imagine!
So, if you really want your life to change for the better, it begins by “Thinking Outside the Box.”
NOW HIRING”
Lead Teacher – Preschool Classroom (Ages 2½–4)
Rainbow Preschool is seeking a caring, energetic and experienced Lead Teacher to guide and inspire our 2½- to 4-year-old classroom. This position is ideal for someone who is passionate about early childhood education and believes in creating a positive, nurturing environment where young children can learn, explore and grow.
Responsibilities
• Develop and implement engaging, ageappropriate lesson plans and activities.
• Lead daily classroom instruction and handson learning experiences.
• Foster a safe, welcoming and supportive classroom environment.
• Encourage social, emotional, cognitive and physical development.
• Maintain positive communication with families regarding student progress and classroom activities.
• Monitor children’s development and provide individualized support as needed.
• Collaborate with fellow staff members to create a successful preschool experience.
• Ensure compliance with all preschool policies, procedures and licensing requirements.
Qualifications
• Experience working with young children in a preschool, daycare or early childhood setting preferred.
• Knowledge of child development and ageappropriate teaching practices.
• Strong communication and organizational skills.
• Patient, dependable and compassionate.
• Ability to work collaboratively with staff, children and families.
• CPR/First Aid certification preferred (or willingness to obtain).
We’re Looking for Someone Who Has:
• A passion for helping young children learn and grow.
• Patience and understanding when working with young learners.
• A kind and caring heart for every child. Creativity, enthusiasm and a positive attitude.
• Experience in a preschool or early childhood environment.
What We Offer
• The opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the lives of young children.
• A supportive and family-focused work environment.
• The chance to help shape the foundation of lifelong learning.
• A rewarding career where every day brings something new. Join our team and help create a positive learning experience for Baldwin City’s youngest learners.
To Apply:
Email:
rainbowexperiencebaldwin@yahoo.com Or call: 785-594-2223 to schedule an interview.
COMMUNITY
FARM-FRESH EGGS DELIVERED RIGHT TO YOUR DOOR IN BALDWIN CITY
For Baldwin City residents looking to buy local and support area farms, getting fresh eggs may be easier than ever...because of Tessa’s Treasures!
You may even recognize the family behind the operation from Issue 8= of The Maple, where they shared a glimpse into their farm life and commitment to raising animals responsibly. Now, they’re making it even easier for local families to enjoy fresh food from a trusted local source.
The family farm is offering delivery of farm-fresh organic eggs throughout Baldwin City and the surrounding rural area, bringing a convenient option directly to homes and businesses twice each week.
The eggs come from hens fed certified organic, non-GMO feed and are sold for $4.50 per dozen, with tax included. Unlike many grocery store eggs, these eggs are left unwashed to help preserve their natural protective coating, which can extend freshness. Thanks to specialized rollout nesting
boxes, the eggs remain clean without requiring washing.
Deliveries are available every Tuesday and Thursday between 11 a.m. and noon, with no delivery surcharge for Baldwin City customers, including those living in nearby rural areas. Customers who are not home during delivery can arrange to have eggs left in a designated location and pay through Venmo or by cash.
The farm, located about four miles northwest of Baldwin City on North 500 Road, also offers pickup for customers who prefer to collect their eggs directly.
As interest in locally produced food continues to grow, services like this provide residents with a simple way to support local agriculture while enjoying fresh products from a nearby source. It’s also a reminder of the many small farms that continue to contribute to Baldwin City’s strong agricultural roots.
Customers are asked to order a minimum of two dozen eggs. For more information or to place an order, contact the farm through Facebook or by text message at 913-706-7313.
“It’s one more example of the small-town convenience that makes Baldwin City special — farm-fresh food raised nearby and delivered right to your doorstep.”
A MESSAGE FROM MARK DODGE, USD 348 SUPERINTENDENT
Dear Baldwin Families, I hope your summer is off to a great start. I am incredibly proud of your students and am looking forward to another year of great experiences. Today’s message is regarding the cell phone ban law passed by the Kansas Legislature in March.
HB 2299 was passed into law this past spring and takes effect in July. It will prohibit all Kansas students from having or using their cell phones and other personal communication devices, including smart watches, earbuds, or headphones, during the school day, including during lunch and passing periods.
While this is similar to the cell phone restrictions we’ve been using and addressing previously in
our school handbooks, it will still mean that changes and adjustments are necessary. Certain exclusions will apply for students on IEP’s and 504 plans. Our administrative team is already working hard to plan for the smoothest and most positive transition possible for staff and students. Our Board of Education will soon be approving a new policy to support this mandate. You can expect more information over the summer, as we get closer to the start of the school year. Thank you in advance for your understanding and patience in the months ahead. If you have questions, please reach out to our administrators. Thank you again for your support, and enjoy your summer!
Mark Dodge
Photograph by Kayla Kohn Photography
