AMPLIFY LIFE CENTER
For 25 years, one chiropractic practice has quietly grown alongside Baldwin City, caring for families, building trust, and forming relationships that span generations. Known for most of that time as Rodrock Chiropractic, the practice recently entered a new chapter under a new name — Amplify Life Center — while continuing the same mission that has guided it since the beginning.
This year marks 25 years of practice for Dr. Jeremy, whose journey in Baldwin City began with little more than a calling and a strong belief in community. Fresh out of school and new to town, he relied on personal connection rather than technology to build his practice.
25 YEARS OF CARE
“What I remember most is the trust,” he said. “I was young and newly out of school, and Baldwin City welcomed me with open arms. There was no fancy technology back then — it was knocking on doors, shaking hands, attending local events, and slowly earning a place in the community.”
That foundation of trust allowed Rodrock Chiropractic to grow steadily, rooted in relationships rather than quick transactions. Over the years, those relationships became generational. Caring for multiple generations of families has shaped how Dr. Jeremy views healthcare. “Health isn’t just about quick visits or treatments,” he explained. “It’s about relationships. When you help a child and years later that same child brings in their own kids, you realize how important long-term care really is.”
Among the many meaningful moments throughout his career, one stands out clearly. During a single visit, Dr. Jeremy had the opportunity to care for four generations of the same family — a great-grandmother, grandmother, mother, and baby boy. “It was absolutely amazing,” he said. “In that moment, I realized how rare and special it is to be trusted with a family’s health across generations.”
That trust, he believes, reflects the heart of Baldwin City itself. “This is a community that values relationships, doing the right thing, and helping others,” Dr. Jeremy said. “People here support local businesses and show up for one another.” Those shared values allowed Rodrock Chiropractic to grow organically over the years, and they remain at the core of the newly named Amplify Life Center.
The recent name change reflects the evolution of the practice while honoring its roots. Though the name and tools have changed, the mission has not. Over the past 25 years, the practice has expanded to include advanced spinal care, neuropathy solutions, regenerative therapies,
rehabilitation services, and technologydriven diagnostics. At the same time, the team has doubled down on education and root-cause care, helping patients understand not just their symptoms, but the underlying causes of their health challenges.
Faith, family, service, and community continue to guide the care provided at Amplify Life Center. Patients are met with thoughtful listening, unhurried appointments, and a focus on the whole person. “We don’t just fix one problem at a time,” Dr. Jeremy said. “We take time to teach, listen, and understand people’s health goals. Faith reminds us that healing is bigger than just us, and serving others keeps us grounded.”
Being trusted with patients’ health — and often their most vulnerable moments — is something Dr. Jeremy describes as humbling. “That kind of trust is sacred,” he said.
“It pushes me to stay focused on what truly matters: serving people at the highest level possible.”
As he reflects on this milestone, gratitude is at the forefront. Dr. Jeremy credits God, his patients, his team, his family, and the Baldwin City community for making the journey possible. “It’s a blessing to do work that matters in a place that feels like home,” he shared. “After 25 years, I still feel excited to come to work every day.”
The anniversary celebration will officially kick off in early February, with plans centered around connection, accomplishment, leadership, and impact. An open house with the Baldwin City Chamber of Commerce is planned, and additional announcements will be shared through Amplify Life Center’s social media channels.
Looking ahead, Dr. Jeremy is excited about growing while staying true to the values that built the practice — from its early days as Rodrock Chiropractic to its future as Amplify Life Center. And to the patients, families, and neighbors who have supported the journey, his message remains simple:
“Thank you. This practice exists because of you. It has been an honor to serve you and your families.”
The Friends of the Baldwin City Public Library hosts
A BOOK FAIR FOR GROWNUPS COMING TO THE BALDWIN CITY LIBRARY
Saturday, February 7 3–5 p.m.
Baldwin City Public Library-800 7th St.
This come-and-go event invites adults to browse books for purchase, visit with vendors, enjoy a silent auction, and meet local authors. A special feature of the afternoon will highlight Baldwin City’s rich local history through the library’s Kansas Room.
Local author, historian, and founder of the Kansas Room, Katherine Kelley, will give short presentations in the Kansas Room at 3:14, 3:45, and 4:15 p.m. Attendees can also view Miss Kelley’s personal scrapbooks, which include photographs of more than 1,000 former students, along with other historical materials.
Guests are encouraged to explore the Kansas Room, participate in a local history scavenger hunt (with prizes), and learn more about the unique resources available through the Baldwin City Public Library.
This event is free and open to the public and offers a relaxed way to support the library while celebrating books, history, and community.
Rates
Baldwin City Community Center 6:00 pm
Feb. 3 & 4
BHS Jazz Night
Lumberyard Arts Center
718 High St., 7 pm
Feb. 7
Book
Fair for Grownups
Baldwin City Library 800 7th St., 3-5 pm
Feb. 7
Tacos and Tequila
Baldwin City Community Center 712 Chapel St., 5-8 pm
Feb. 12
Lumberyard Arts Center 718 High St., 4-6pm
COMMUNITY
SURRENDER
OUTSIDE THE BOX
By Jeanine Ross
Have you ever truly thought about the word surrender? The dictionary defines surrender as: “to cease, quit, surrender to an enemy or opponent, and submit to their authority.” Wow! By that definition, who would voluntarily surrender? Certainly not me! But that definition isn’t entirely wrong. To surrender, there are things you have to give up, stop doing, let go of but not to the enemy or opponent. They are things, or habits, or beliefs you surrender inside yourself. You surrender to your higher self. The self that is sometimes referred to as your conscience or your inner angel. To surrender to your higher self, is to let go of the control you think you have, and trust that you are being guided by an inner compass that knows the way better than you do.
Whoa! Hold on there Jeanine! Nobody knows the direction I want my life to go in better than I do!
I knew that would get your attention! Ok, now think about what you’re feeling right now. I’m not asking you to surrender to the enemy or the law! I’m asking you to surrender to your higher self. The self that always moves in the right direction, does the right thing, and loves unconditionally. But just the thought of the word surrender, got you all riled up! That’s because surrender is associated with weakness or lack of self esteem or some kind of inability to perform. In reality, to surrender
is the bravest thing you can do! It takes a tremendous amount of strength and faith and will power to let go and let someone else lead. Following in obedience is not easy! Believing that someone else can get you where you want to go better than any effort you may put into it on your own, is nothing short of miraculous! It’s why so few of us do it. To seek guidance and direction by going inside yourself and learning to listen to the gentle whispers of your higher self, takes discipline and acceptance and faith, a lot of faith! The kind of faith that Jesus had. The kind of faith that God asks of us. Ahhhh! Now you see where I’m going with this. To surrender is not to stop or do nothing. To surrender means to check in with the whisper before you act. Sit quietly with yourself and ask, “Is this the right direction?” Then have the patience to wait for the answer. It’s okay if you start moving in the direction you think is best, but if you hit complicated roadblocks or flat out resistance, stop! Even if you’re positive you’re going the right direction. Stop! Listen! Wait! The right doors will open when they are supposed to. Trust your higher self, whose voice is always wrapped in love, positive movement, and peaceful rhythm. If you are feeling anything different from that, wait!
If you have the strength, power, and faith to surrender, your life will change in miraculous ways!
So, if you really want your life to change for the better, it begins by “Thinking Outside the Box.” THINKING
COMMUNITY
As winter weather moves into the forecast each year, questions naturally arise about how Baldwin City prepares for snow and ice events — and what residents can expect when storms hit. City staff want the community to know that a solid plan is in place, with crews prepared well before the first flakes fall.
Preparing Ahead of the Storm
Baldwin City’s Public Works crew begins preparations days in advance when winter weather is predicted. Trucks are prepped, loaded, and fitted with snow plows and sanders, often as early as Thursday or Friday ahead of a weekend storm. To ensure the fastest possible response, trucks are parked facing outward, allowing crews to roll out efficiently when conditions require.
Sand and salt stockpiles are ordered early in the season and replenished as needed. This year’s annual shipment arrived more than a month ahead of winter weather. If time allows and conditions are favorable, roads may be pre-treated with salt and sand. However, pretreatment depends on several factors, including temperature. Salt is far less effective when temperatures drop below 15 degrees Fahrenheit, making pre-treatment less effective and sometimes impractical.
All city staff members
with weather-related duties closely monitor Douglas County Emergency Management alerts and work alongside partner agencies as needed. Baldwin City Police Officers also provide real-time street condition updates to Public Works during severe weather events.
Snow Removal Priorities
When possible, Public Works waits until snowfall has ended before plowing to reduce overall costs and improve efficiency. However, if snow begins to accumulate quickly or conditions become dangerous — especially with wet, heavy snow — crews may begin plowing sooner.
Priority is given to designated snow routes, roads near schools, and downtown areas, which experience the highest traffic volumes. Baldwin City’s brick streets are addressed early when possible, as they become slick quickly and require extra time to plow due to parked vehicles.
Designated snow routes
include:
High Street
Lawrence Street to Highway 56 6th Street
If more than two inches of snow is predicted or has fallen, vehicles must be moved off snow routes to avoid ticketing or towing. City officials also recommend moving vehicles off all city streets when
more than one inch of snow is expected, when possible, to allow plows full access.
What Residents Should Know
It’s important for residents to note that Douglas County is responsible for maintaining 6th Street (1055), and the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) maintains Highway 56. These roads, including winter weather maintenance, are not handled by the City of Baldwin City.
Snow plow drivers often work in low-visibility conditions while managing multiple hazards at once — including curb lines, ditches, parked cars, mailboxes, pedestrians, and traffic. Drivers are encouraged to give plows plenty of space and patience as they work to keep streets safe.
If snowfall creates large snow plow piles, children should not play in them. These piles can be extremely dangerous due to poor visibility and the potential for additional plowing.
Above all, city officials ask for patience during winter storms. Crews work long hours in difficult conditions with the goal of making streets as safe as possible so residents can travel and return home safely.
For those who wish to receive emergency notifications, Douglas County Emergency Management offers an alert system residents can sign up for to stay informed during severe weather events.
LEARNING IN ACTION
We’ve been loving the way the school district has been sharing classroom moments on social media — all the learning, creativity, and handson fun happening every day. Some of it is just too good not to put in print, so we’re starting a new section to highlight what’s happening inside our local classrooms.
From Mrs. Widener’s Classroom
Seventh grade science students recently traded their engineering hats for doctor scrubs as they explored how different systems in the human body work together to influence how we feel. During a recent lab, students tested solutions to determine whether glucose or starch was present, gaining hands-on experience with scientific investigation and real-world applications of biology and chemistry.
USD 348 CELEBRATIONS
BALDWIN JUNIOR HIGH SPELLING BEE WINNER
Congratulations to Chloe McLaughlin (left) for winning the Baldwin Junior High School Spelling Bee! A big shout-out also goes to Parker (right), the runner-up, for an outstanding performance and impressive accomplishment. Way to represent BJHS and show off those spelling skills!
JUMP ROPE RECORDS ARE FALLING AT THE PRIMARY CENTER
We’ve been following the progress on social media, and PE teacher Kara Roland — a.k.a. Coach Ro — has sparked a jump rope showdown at the Baldwin Primary Center that escalated very quickly.
On January 20, Tess crushed the school record with 344 consecutive jumps. Just two days later, Laney wasn’t having it, reclaiming the title with 355 jumps, declaring, “That record is MINE.”
Then came January 23 — and Jaidyn took jump rope to a whole new level, shattering the record with an incredible 515 consecutive jumps.
Hard work, determination, and a little friendly competition are clearly paying off. Way to go, jump rope champs!
Clockwise from top: Jaidyn J., Laney T., and Tess O. celebrate right after each beat the Baldwin Primary Center jump rope record during a PE challenge led by Coach Ro.
COMMUNITY PARTNERS OFFER SOCIAL MEDIA WORKSHOPS TO HELP BUSINESSES BOOST VISIBILITY AHEAD OF WORLD CUP EVENTS
LAWRENCE, Kan. – With thousands of visitors expected in Douglas County during this summer’s World Cup events, local organizations are partnering to help area businesses strengthen their online presence. The Lawrence Chamber, KU Small Business Development Center, Multistudio and Douglas County will host two free social media workshops designed to help businesses prepare for increased visibility and customer engagement.
“With a major opportunity on the horizon, we want to equip local businesses with the tools and knowledge they need to promote the amazing establishments in our community,” said Tyler Lindquist, of Multistudio and a member of economic development planning team for Lawrence 2026. “We’re offering both beginner and advanced workshops to support those new to social media as well as those who use it regularly.”
Workshop 1: Social Media 101
9-11 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 18
KU Innovation Park, 2033 Becker Ave.
This introductory session will cover the pros and cons of major platforms, cost and time considerations, marketing do’s and don’ts related to World Cup branding and tips for producing effective content. The workshop includes a panel discussion, a question-and-answer session and an interactive activity.
Moderator:
Chris Miller, business advisor and communication strategist at the KU Business Development Center. Miller helps local entrepreneurs grow through thoughtful business strategy and meaningful human connection. He hosts the Talk to People podcast and the Talk to Chris Miller YouTube channel.
Panelists:
• Matt Hyde, founder of 715 Restaurant. He oversees day-to-day operations and social media for the business.
• Matt Pool, owner and lead photographer at Cinder and Ivory. Pool specializes in editorial weddings, boudoir, seniors, branding, and corporate and nonprofit events. He has grown his business into a four-person team, traveled
Contact:
Karrey Britt
Communications and Media Coordinator Office: 785-330-2894
Mobile: 785-393-4109
kbritt@dgcoks.gov
internationally for clients and earned Top 5 recognition in The Pitch’s Best of KC 2025 for both boudoir and wedding photography.
• Debbi Johanning, a digital strategist, has been working in social media since the MySpace days, managing social media accounts for the Sandbar. Debbi also has experience in higher education and alumni
relations and is currently a communications specialist for a market research company.
Workshop 2: Advanced Social Media
9-11 a.m., Wednesday, March 4
KU Innovation Park, 2033 Becker Ave.
This advanced session will focus on algorithms, photography, videography and strategic considerations ahead of the World Cup. There will be a panel discussion, a question-and-answer session and interactive activity.
Moderator:
Jared Bednar, founder of YellowBug, a marketing and design agency. Bednar has more than 15 years of experience in business operations, marketing and fundraising for nonprofit and recreational organizations. He co-founded YellowBug in 2023 with his wife, Katarina, to help organizations use social media strategically to support business and community goals.
Panelists:
• Jeff Burkhead, owner of Backstory Photography. Burkhead spent 45 years in journalism and communications and developed a passion for photography. In 2021, he published a coffee table book titled Our Pandemic Year in Photos.
• Kelly Crane, assistant teaching professor for marketing at the University of Kansas School of Business. Crane has held leadership positions in entertainment, healthcare, telecommunications and consulting, where she led integrated marketing communications strategies. She has taught digital marketing and social media strategy for the past 10 years.
• Seth Sanchez and Nathan Mize, of Drone Lawrence. Mize founded Drone Lawrence in 2018 after earning a strategic communications degree at KU, and he brings a passion for drones, video editing and social media to every project. Sanchez joined soon after, bringing more than a decade of social media and marketing experience before becoming co-owner in 2020. Together they provide highquality aerial video and photography known for short, attention-grabbing content.
• Megan Spreer, a local marketing and communications professional, specializing in audiencefirst content and measurable performance. She has partnered with both local and national brands to grow their online presence and build meaningful engagement.
“We’re calling this series ‘Winning the Feed’ because that’s exactly what we want our local businesses to do,” Lindquist said. “When thousands of visitors arrive this summer, we want Douglas County businesses to stand out, tell their stories and capture the attention they deserve.”
Both workshops are free, but reservations are required. To register, visit https://members. lawrencechamber.com/events.
COMMUNITY
BCRC UPDATES: COMMUNITY CENTER
A new activities calendar is out for February, along with the January calendar. All weather-related closures will be posted in BCRC’s Rainout Line app.
COMMUNITY CENTER RENTALS
Now accepting graduation party reservations! Did you know the Community Center is available for private rentals? With a warming kitchen, recreation room (complete with a PS5 and golf/soccer simulator), and plenty of tables and chairs, the facility is perfect for graduation parties, class reunions, birthday parties, celebrations, and more. New rental fees are now in effect.
EVENTS
Tacos and Tequila Casino Night
Who’s ready to “taco-bout” teachers? It’s almost time for the 2nd annual Tacos and Tequila Night! Join us on February 7 for El Patron tacos, tequila tastings, an exhibit of BEF-funded classroom grants, and new this year — a casino night. All proceeds benefit the BEF Teacher Assistance Grant program.
Daddy Daughter Dance
Turn down the lights and turn up the glow—the 2026 Daddy-Daughter Dance is almost here! Enjoy a bright night filled with glow sticks, giggles, lively music, tasty treats, and a dance floor made for memory-making (and a few unforgettable dad moves). Registration opens Wednesday, January 14. More details coming soon.
YOUTH ACTIVITIES
Open Interviews for Seasonal Employment
Summer hiring starts now! BCRC will host two open interview dates for seasonal summer employment on February 11 and 13. On-the-spot hiring available.
Spring Soccer Registration
Let’s kick it! Registration for Youth Spring Soccer is now open. New for Spring 2026: teams for 3rd grade and up will be split by gender. If there are not enough players to form separate boys’ or girls’ teams, teams will be combined into co-ed. Kindergarten through 2nd grade will remain co-ed.
Micro Soccer Registration
Registration is now open for Micro Soccer, an innovative program designed to introduce children ages 2–4 to basic soccer skills in a fun, age-appropriate way.
ADULT ACTIVITIES
Adult Volleyball Spring League
So nice, we’re serving it twice! After a successful winter season, the Adult Volleyball League is back for spring. The league runs March 29–May 3 (no games on Easter Sunday) and will be held Sunday evenings at Baldwin High School. A 10-game season is guaranteed.
COMMUNITY
BERT NASH COMMUNITY MENTAL HEALTH CENTER ANNOUNCES $25,000 GRANT FROM SECURITY BENEFIT TO ADVANCE YOUTH RECOVERY CENTER
Lawrence, Kan. February 2, 2026The Bert Nash Community Mental Health Center, in partnership with Security Benefit, today announced a $25,000 grant to support construction of the Judge Jean Shepherd Youth Recovery Center — a new youthfocused crisis, stabilization, and outpatient treatment facility being developed at 3500 Clinton Place in Lawrence.
“This generous gift from Security Benefit is a powerful investment in the future of youth mental health in Douglas County and a strong collective statement of belief in the people we serve,” said Dr. Kirsten Watkins, Interim CEO of the Bert Nash Center. “With this support, we are one step closer to opening the Youth Recovery Center and creating a place where children, teens, and families can receive urgent, compassionate care close to home, rather than being sent hours away during some of the most difficult moments of their lives.”
Douglas County currently lacks a dedicated facility for youth psychiatric crisis care, forcing families to travel out of the region or wait for services when time matters most. The Youth Recovery Center will fill that gap by providing 24/7 crisis intervention, shortterm stabilization, and outpatient mental health and substance use treatment in a single, purpose-built facility designed specifically for youth and their families.
Security Benefit CEO Doug Wolff said enhancing and expanding regional mental health services, especially for youth, is a key focus of the company’s Charitable Trust.
“We appreciate Bert Nash’s visionary leadership in addressing this serious need in Douglas County,” Wolff said. “Their initiative will expedite the delivery of high-quality care locally and make stressful situations more bearable for burdened families.”
The Bert Nash Center has now raised $6.3 million toward its $12 million campaign goal,
moving the project beyond the halfway point. As the campaign continues, Bert Nash Center will enter a public phase of fundraising this spring, inviting the broader community to help bring the Youth Recovery Center to life.
“This partnership is about a shared commitment,” Watkins said. “Security Benefit’s leadership helps inspire others to step forward and be part of something that will save lives and strengthen families.”
The Youth Recovery Center will open after the remaining funds are raised and construction is completed.
For more information about the Youth Recovery Center or how to support the campaign, visit www.bertnash.org/yrc
About the Bert Nash Center: Established in 1950, the Bert Nash Center (BNC) serves as Douglas County, Kansas’ designated community mental health center & the Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic (CCBHC). BNC is the safety-net provider to anyone grappling with mental health or substance use issues - regardless of diagnosis, residence, or financial status.
Our mission is to advance the mental health of the Douglas County community through comprehensive behavioral health services responsive to evolving needs and changing environments.
A celebration of friendship, creativity, and community will return to Baldwin City this February as BCK United presents the February FriendSHIP Fest, a free, all-ages event designed to bring people together in a joyful and inclusive space.
FEBRUARY FRIENDSHIP FEST RETURNS BHS JAZZ NIGHT BRINGS LIVE MUSIC TO THE LUMBERYARD ARTS CENTER
The space-themed February FriendSHIP Fest will take place on Thursday, February 12, from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Lumberyard Arts Center, located at 718 High Street. Open to all ages, the event invites families, friends, and neighbors to gather for an evening filled with hands-on activities, art, and connection — all under the theme “Together We Soar.”
BCK United is a youth-driven organization in Baldwin City focused on discovering and discussing resources and action steps that support a healthy, inclusive community. Through events like FriendSHIP Fest, BCK United creates welcoming spaces where young people and families can build relationships, express creativity, and feel a strong sense of belonging.
Attendees can expect a variety of “out-of-thisworld” activities, including button making, interactive art stations, a group photo station, and food and treats throughout the evening. The relaxed, come-andgo format makes it easy for families to stop in and enjoy the experience at their own pace.
The Maple is proud to be a strong supporter of BCK United and its mission to uplift youth voices and foster community engagement in Baldwin City. Events like February FriendSHIP Fest reflect the heart of what makes our town special — people coming together, celebrating creativity, and creating inclusive spaces where everyone belongs. February FriendSHIP Fest is hosted by the Lumberyard Arts Center and is made possible
through community support and partnerships. There is no cost to attend, and all ages are welcome.
For families looking for a meaningful, fun way to spend a winter afternoon — and for anyone who believes in the power of friendship and community — February FriendSHIP Fest promises an experience that’s truly stellar.
Publisher’s Note: I took our four kids to February FriendSHIP Fest last year, and they were pleasantly surprised by just how much fun they had. From the hands-on activities to the welcoming atmosphere, it was one of those events that truly lived up to its promise of connection and creativity — and we’re excited to see it return this year.
Music lovers are invited to enjoy an evening of live jazz as the Baldwin City High School Jazz Ensemble takes the stage for BHS Jazz Night, presented as part of Lumberyard Live on High.
The two-night performance will be held on February 3 and 4 at the Lumberyard Arts Center, located at 718 High Street in Baldwin City. Doors will open at 6:30 p.m., with music beginning promptly at 7:00 p.m. Seating is limited, and attendees are encouraged to arrive early to secure a spot. Beverages will be available for purchase.
The event showcases the talent and dedication of Baldwin City High School’s student musicians, offering the community a chance to experience an energetic evening of jazz while supporting local arts and youth education. Performances will feature a mix of classic and contemporary jazz pieces, highlighting the ensemble’s musicianship and collaboration.
Tickets are $5 per night, making the event an affordable and accessible way for community members to enjoy live music while celebrating student achievement. Proceeds support continued arts programming and live music opportunities at the Lumberyard Arts Center.
BHS Jazz Night is made possible through community partnerships and support, including the Kansas Arts Commission, the National Endowment for the Arts, USD 348, and the Lumberyard Arts Center. With two nights of music, this event offers a perfect midwinter opportunity to gather, listen, and support Baldwin City’s young performers.