The Maple Weekly - March 2

WEEKLY

A BALDWIN CITY NEWSPAPER

BALDWIN BUILT: CHAMBER BANQUET CELEBRATES THE PEOPLE AND PARTNERSHIPS BEHIND THE COMMUNITY

Nearly 150 community members gathered for the Baldwin City Chamber of Commerce’s annual awards banquet — an evening that celebrated not only outstanding individuals and organizations, but the deeper connections that shape Baldwin City’s future.

Held at Stony Point and themed “Baldwin Built,” this year’s banquet was designed to be more than a traditional awards ceremony. Instead, it became a shared conversation about how education, business, advocacy, and local leadership come together to strengthen the community.

The theme grew from a simple statement shared by Baker University President Dr. Jody Fournier at a recent luncheon: “Baldwin is Baker, and Baker is Baldwin.” That idea served as the foundation for an evening centered on collaboration — highlighting how progress happens when people work together across sectors.

Voices of Baldwin

Rather than a series of unrelated speeches, the program unfolded as one connected narrative about Baldwin City’s identity and direction. Community leaders reflected on the roles their fields play in shaping the town’s future:

• Mark Dodge (USD 348) spoke about education as the foundation of a strong community.

• Mayor Gerald Cullumber emphasized intentional growth and responsible stewardship.

• State Representative Courtney Sappington highlighted advocacy beyond Baldwin’s borders.

• Jeff Hill addressed economic development and long-term sustainability.

• Dr. Jody Fournier (Baker University) reflected on legacy and future leadership. Together, their remarks reinforced a shared message: Baldwin City doesn’t just happen — it’s built through relationships,

communication, and a willingness to invest in one another.

2026 Baldwin City Chamber Award Winners included:

• Best Newcomer: Baldwin City Distillery

• Best Community Event: Maple Leaf Festival

• Excellence in Education (USD 348): Parents as Teachers

• Excellence in Education (Baker University): Literary Salon

• Innovative Marketing: Lumberyard Arts Center — Bailey Rice-Beach

• Friendship Award: Baldwin City Library

• Local Hero Award: Casey Simoneau

• Business of the Year: Hometown Construction

Community participation played a significant role in the selection process, with residents and businesses submitting nominations to recognize the people and organizations making a difference across Baldwin City.

Silent Auction Showcases Local Generosity

The banquet’s silent auction reflected the creativity and generosity of local donors, featuring everything from alpaca socks and wellness baskets to gift cards, handcrafted items, and unique experiences.

Among the most talked-about packages were an outdoor Little Free Library stocked with books from the Baldwin City Public Library, custom cutting boards and birdhouses from Baldwin City Made, a Master Distiller’s Tour at Baldwin City Distillery, a shopping spree at Standard Grooming Supply, and a vibrant potted arrangement from Vinland Valley Nursery.

The evening’s most competitive bidding centered around an electric toothbrush and teeth-whitening set donated by Baldwin City Dental, which drew the highest number of bids.

A Community Effort

The Chamber extended special appreciation to Title Sponsor Mid America Bank, along with full table, half table, award, and social hour sponsors whose support helped make the evening possible. Organizers also thanked everyone who participated by submitting nominations, donating auction items, or attending the event.

The program opened with an invocation from Pastor Kyle Wright of Family Church. Noni’s Catering provided the meal, while Baldwin High School’s Culinary Class served desserts — marking their first time participating in an event of this scale. Bar service was provided by Kelsey Mullis.

More Than a Banquet

While the evening honored accomplishments, its larger focus remained on connection. The “Baldwin Built” theme underscored the Chamber’s role in linking businesses, institutions, and community partners — helping align efforts so Baldwin City grows thoughtfully and intentionally.

As speakers throughout the night emphasized, Baldwin’s strength lies in collaboration — from classrooms and city hall to local businesses and higher education.

When those pieces work together, Baldwin City doesn’t just move forward — it sets an example of what a community can be.

Baldwin City will once again turn green this spring as the community comes together for the Second Annual St. Patrick’s Day Celebration, a familyfriendly event designed to bring neighbors, businesses, and visitors together in a uniquely Baldwin way.

Organized through Baldwin City Made and local partners, the celebration centers around the lively Paddy Wagon Parade, a creative twist on a traditional parade that invites participants to decorate UTVs, golf carts, tractors, bicycles, and more. The idea began last year among a group of local business owners and friends who wanted to create something fun and community-driven. The success of that first event proved Baldwin City residents are eager for opportunities to celebrate together — and organizers say year two is about building on that momentum.

Unlike a typical float-and-firetruck parade, the Paddy Wagon Parade leans into creativity and connection. Participants often arrive with themed décor, Irish music, costumes, and plenty of green spirit, transforming downtown into what organizers describe as a “rolling block party.” From fully decked-out side-by-sides to families riding bikes in coordinated outfits, the variety of entries is part of what makes the event feel personal and interactive.

The celebration kicks off at Baldwin City Distillery, where participants will gather for check-in and lineup before a police-escorted route through downtown. The parade will conclude at Baldwin City Beer Company, where the festivities continue with food, drinks, awards, and activities designed for all ages. Organizers say the finish line is meant to feel like a true after-party — a space where the

entire community can relax and celebrate together.

Family participation remains a central focus. Kids will find arts and crafts activities and space to play while awards are presented for categories like Best Paddy Wagon, Rowdiest Entry, and Best Dressed for men, women, and kids. The goal, organizers say, is to create an atmosphere where families feel just as welcome as any other attendee.

Behind the scenes, the event is supported by a wide network of local businesses, volunteers, and the Baldwin City Police Department, whose escort helps ensure the parade runs safely. Participants are encouraged to pre-register, follow designated routes, and prioritize safety by having responsible drivers and adhering to event guidelines.

Now in its second year, organizers say they’ve refined logistics and expanded participation while maintaining the relaxed, small-town energy that made the first celebration successful. Their hope is to grow the event into a signature Baldwin City tradition — one that people mark on their calendars each year and that draws visitors while still feeling unmistakably local.

For those planning to attend, the advice is simple: wear green, dress for Kansas weather, and bring lawn chairs if you plan to watch along the route. Most importantly, organizers encourage everyone to come ready for fun.

“This is only our second year,” organizers shared, “but it’s relaxed, it’s local, and it’s genuinely fun. You’ll see people you know, meet a few you don’t, and be reminded why small-town celebrations matter.”

COMMUNITY

COMMUNITY

U.S. 56 CROSSWALK IMPROVEMENTS

Two crosswalk projects are currently under construction inside Baldwin City limits, both affecting Highway 56.

New sidewalks, as well as a new crosswalk, are being installed at the Santa Fe Drive and Hwy 56 intersection in order to connect Heritage Subdivision walkers and bikers to the rest of town. The new crosswalk will feature current Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) standards, including Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacons (RRFB), which are proven to increase visibility and reduce crashes significantly.

The contractors expect this project to take approximately 6-8 weeks, depending on weather conditions.

At 8th Street and Hwy 56, the existing crosswalk is receiving new features to bring it up to current highway standards as well. It will receive new high-visibility signage, new paint, and RRFBs to make it as safe as possible for pedestrians. The expected timeline for this project is approximately 2-3 weeks, depending on weather conditions.

Full plans for both projects are available on the BG Consultants planning website: https://projectbids.drexeltech. com/.../us-56-pedestrian....

For more information and data on the safety features of Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacons (RRFB), visit the U.S. Department of Transportation webpage: https://highways.dot.gov/.../rectangular-rapid-flashing....

SANTA FE TRAIL HISTORICAL SOCIETY WINTER MEETING & PROGRAM SET FOR FEB. 22

The Santa Fe Trail Historical Society of Douglas County invites the community to its Winter Meeting, Potluck Dinner, and Program on Sunday, Feb. 22, at First United Methodist Church Fellowship Hall, 704 Eighth Street in Baldwin City.

The evening begins at 5 p.m. with social time, followed by a potluck dinner at 5:30 p.m. (meat provided; guests are asked to bring a salad, side dish, or dessert). At 6:15 p.m., Jan Elder will present “Did the Underground Railroad Use Our Farm?” — a program exploring a fascinating piece of local history.

Guests and visitors are welcome to attend and learn more about Baldwin City’s heritage and the work of the historical society.

SCHEDULE:

5:00 P.M. — SOCIAL TIME 5:30 P.M. — POTLUCK DINNER 6:15 P.M. — PROGRAM PRESENTATION

LAWRENCE-DOUGLAS COUNTY PUBLIC HEALTH SEEKS NOMINATIONS FOR 2026 HEALTH CHAMPION AND HEALTHIER TOGETHER AWARDS

DOUGLAS COUNTY, KANSAS, February 18, 2026 – Lawrence-Douglas County Public Health (LDCPH) is inviting Douglas County residents to nominate individuals and organizations who are dedicated to advancing health for all in Douglas County.

Each year during National Public Health Week (first full week of April), LDCPH recognizes two Douglas County community members with the Health Champion award and one local organization with the Healthier Together award. These awards recognize exceptional efforts to model, encourage, and promote health in the community.

The deadline for nominations is March 10 at 12 p.m., and the nomination form can be accessed online at https:// bit.ly/3M2yhQv

“Our Health Champion and Healthier Together honorees are proof of what happens when people commit to Health with a capital H. When we say Health with a capital H, we’re talking about more than doctor’s visits or the usual ways we talk about health.

We mean the everyday conditions, from housing and transportation to mental health, environmental quality, and the opportunities that people need to truly thrive,” said LDCPH Executive Director Jonathan Smith. “These honorees are innovators and connectors that push Douglas County forward. Their work shows how Health is built every day in our neighborhoods, workplaces, and community spaces. We’re inviting our community to lift up the changemakers making Health with a capital H possible for all.”

Last year’s Health Champion award winners include Chrissy Mayer, Chief Community Based Services Officer at DCCCA, and Misty Bosch-Hastings, Director of Homeless Solutions Division for the City of Lawrence. Nonprofit organization Honor Moon received the 2025 Healthier Together award.

The 2026 awardees will be celebrated during LDCPH’s National Public Health Week Luncheon during the first full week in April, where they will be recognized for their dedication to our community’s well-being.

HURRY UP AND WAIT

By Jeanine Ross

Remember the phrase, “hurry up and wait?” I used to dread that phrase! To me it meant, be the first in line so you can wait another hour for someone to open the doors to my favorite black Friday sale. Or run as fast as you can to the finish line so you can wait until the judges decide who the winner is, even though I was the only one standing there. Or hurry up and get pregnant, then wait nine months until the baby arrives! Ugh!

As you may imagine, I was not a very good waiter. I wanted what I wanted and I wanted it right that moment! I think that is true for most of us. Then I figured out what hurry up and wait really meant, and it changed my perspective. That’s what I want to share with you today.

All of us have a limited time on this earth but none of us knows how much or when that time will come to an end. We’ve all been given a purpose, something that only we can do, the way we do it but most of us don’t know what that purpose is. We spend our time caught up in “worldly” things, and by that I mean we put our time and energy into things that, in the long run, don’t matter at all! The content of what we watch on TV or at the movies can attest to that. Nonsensical game shows not only don’t teach us anything relevant, but instead grow animosity between us. Or movies that are so filled with hate and revenge, just watching them makes us feel it too. Or movies with so much pain and sorrow that it makes our eyes fill with tears and our hearts heavy for people that don’t even exist! Hurry up means, open our eyes and our minds and stop following just because it’s easier! Hurry up and figure out, we’re wasting our time and our intellect on things that don’t make us better! Hurry up and see, our time is dwindling and we still haven’t fulfilled our purpose! Hurry up! Time is ticking away while we follow the crowd headed to the slaughter. Hurry up takes on a whole other meaning when we put it in context.

Then we have to wait until we can wrap our minds around the fact that we’ve been sleepwalking to our own destruction, in rhythm with a world that was never intended to last forever. After that we have to wait until we figure out which direction to go in and how to get there. Then when we finally get on the road to life, light, growth and forward mobility, we wait until our real life is manifested. But we wait in peace, love, tranquility and happiness. Now, that’s a “hurry up and wait” worth doing!

So, if you really want your life to change for the better, it begins by “Thinking Outside the Box.”

VINLAND VALLEY NURSERY LAUNCHES LOCAL GUIDE FOCUSED ON POLLINATORS AND NATIVE PLANTS

A new gardening resource rooted in local knowledge is helping Baldwin City residents rethink how their landscapes can support pollinators, birds, and wildlife — and it’s coming straight from one of the area’s longtime family-owned greenhouses.

Vinland Valley Nursery recently released its Local Guide to Gardening for Insects & Wildlife, a publication designed to help gardeners of all experience levels create spaces that benefit butterflies, bees, and other beneficial species. Written by nursery co-owner Amy Albright and featuring plant lists and observations from local butterfly expert Lenora Larson, the guide blends practical plant knowledge with design ideas tailored to the region.

The publication includes recommendations for beneficial plants available locally, ideas for gardens of any size, and educational insight into how thoughtful planting can support biodiversity. Organizers hope the guide will encourage residents to see their yards not only as decorative spaces, but as habitats that contribute to the health of the local ecosystem.

Located at 1606 N. 600 Road in Baldwin City, Vinland Valley Nursery has served the area since 1998, when Doug Davison and Albright opened

the greenhouse nestled in the rolling hills between Baldwin City and Lawrence. The family-run business has grown over the years into a fullservice garden center known for organically grown plants and a strong focus on native species — nearly half of the perennials, shrubs, and trees grown on site are native plants.

Today, the nursery remains deeply rooted in family and community, with multiple generations of the Davison family involved alongside longtime staff. In addition to plants, the garden center offers locally made goods, pottery, bulk mulch and compost, landscape design and installation services, workshops, events, and even a U-pick cutting

landscapes that are not only beautiful, but also beneficial to the natural world surrounding Baldwin City.

Whether you’re picking up the new guide or simply looking to refresh your landscape, consider visiting Vinland Valley Nursery in person or exploring everything they offer online at vinlandvalleynursery. com. The full-service garden center features organically grown plants, native species, pottery, bulk mulch and compost, landscape design and installation services, workshops, and more — making it a one-stop destination for gardeners of all experience levels. Take a few minutes to browse their website to see the wide range of plants, services, and seasonal offerings available, and discover how they can help bring your outdoor spaces to life.

This month-long, community-wide initiative will once again focus on connecting residents to better health through engaging activities, practical wellness education, and fun opportunities to get involved. Local businesses and wellness leaders will collaborate to offer events, challenges, and resources designed to support physical, mental, and overall well-being throughout the community.

One of this year’s highlights will take place April 25 at Collins Gym, bringing together both the Community Walk and the Vendor Fair as part of the Be Well Baldwin City celebration.

While final details are still being finalized, organizers promise a full calendar of ways for residents of all ages to participate and prioritize their health during the month-long event. Community members are encouraged to watch the Chamber’s website for updates as new information and event details are announced.

March

March 3

Maple

5-6:30

March

March 7 Live Music at Baldwin City DistilleryMatt Parenti 6-8 pm, Baldwin City Distillery, 1747 N 200 Rd.

March

March 12

Explore Baldwin Series and Ribbon CuttingBaldwin City Metabolic Medicine

5-6:30 pm, Baldwin City Metabolic Medicine, 705 High St.

COMMUNITY

A NEW COMMUNITY RESOURCE NAVIGATOR PROGRAM IS NOW AVAILABLE TO HELP RESIDENTS CONNECT WITH IMPORTANT LOCAL SERVICES AND SUPPORT.

Every Monday from 2–4 p.m., a Community Resource Navigator from United Way of Kaw Valley will be available to assist individuals and families with applying for assistance, exploring housing options, completing applications, scheduling appointments, and finding community resources. The program is designed to make navigating services easier — offering guidance and support every step of the way.

The initiative is sponsored by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas and generous UWKV donors, helping ensure community members don’t have to navigate challenges alone.

BALDWIN CITY REC UPDATES

EVENTS

2026 Shamrock Hunt:

Get ready to ROCK your spring break! The luckiest rock hunt around returns March 15-19. Details to come—stay tuned!

Registration now open for Thunder on the Bricks Classic Car Show:

Every car has a story—come hear them roar. Our classic car show revs back into town on May 9, but you can skip the lines and register your vehicle now! The first 200 registrants will receive a commemorative dash plaque with the 2026 logo. Motorcycles welcome too! Learn more and register your vehicle online at www.thunderonthebricks.com.

YOUTH ACTIVITIES

Sponsorship Opportunities:

Banner sponsorship closes Sunday, March 1! Want to support local youth sports AND get your business in front of thousands of attendees? BCRC is now accepting sponsorships for 2026. Sponsor a youth team this summer and get your name on the back of their jerseys, or purchase a banner to hang at the Sports Complex, Soccer Complex, or Baldwin City Pool. Support local and look good doing it! Check out our website to learn more and complete our form.

Baseball/Softball/T-Ball/Little Sluggers Registration:

Registration is now open for summer 2026 baseball/softball! From age 3 all the way up to age 15, we’ve got something for you:

T-Ball: Co-ed baseball for ages 3-4 years old

Little Sluggers: Co-ed baseball for ages 5-6

Baseball:

For boys (age brackets 7/8, 9/10, 11/12, 13-15)

Softball:

For girls (age brackets 8U, 10U, 12U, 15U)

Micro Soccer Registration:

Registration for our preschool Micro Soccer is open! Micro Soccer is an innovative program that introduces 2-4 year olds to the basic skills of soccer in a fun, age-appropriate manner. Check more details about Micro Soccer at our website and sign up your child up today!

Summer Soccer Camp:

Have you heard about the BIG soccer tournament coming up this summer? To celebrate, the BHS girls and boys soccer programs are hosting a summer soccer camp the week of June 8-12. Choose between two age brackets (preschool and K-8th grade) and learn from BHS’s decorated coaches and players (accolades include 2025 boys state runner-up and 5-time girls regional champions). Check out the details and sign up now at our website!

ADULT ACTIVITIES

March Movement Fitness Challenge:

March into spring fitness with our March Movement fitness challenge! Each fitness class will feature one exercise. Contestants will have one minute to complete as many reps as possible. AT the end of the month, we’ll calculate average scores across all workouts. Highest overall average will be our champion and will win a free month of classes, a social media spotlight, bragging rights, and a SURPRISE prize. Join us as we celebrate consistency, effort, and show up for ourselves this month. See you there!

Adult Volleyball Spring League:

Bump, set, spike it – just the way we like it! Registration is open for our adult volleyball spring league. League games runs Sundays from March 29May 3 (no games on Easter). Games will be played at Baldwin High School with a 10 game season guarantee.

COMMUNITY

BALDWIN STUDENT EARNS SECOND PLACE AT ENTREPRENEURSHIP CHALLENGE

Baldwin High School senior Ian Bryan turned heads at this year’s Douglas County Youth Entrepreneurship Challenge, earning second place and a $1,000 prize for his business, IB Western Supply — a handcrafted leather brand built around traditional skills, custom design, and everyday functionality.

Held Feb. 20 at the Dwayne Peaslee Technical Training Center, the annual competition brought together young entrepreneurs from across the county

to pitch original business ideas before a panel of judges. Bryan’s work stood out for its craftsmanship and authenticity, featuring handmade leather goods such as wallets, money clips, belts, and practical tools designed for daily use.

His projects highlight a range of techniques — from carving and painting to custom finishing — demonstrating both artistic skill and business potential at a young age. Community members can explore more of Bryan’s work by visiting IB Western Supply on Facebook at ib.western.supply, where he shares examples of his latest pieces and custom orders.

While Bryan represented Baldwin City with a strong showing, the competition also celebrated a wide range of innovative student ideas from across Douglas County.

First place went to eighth-grader Daniel Dao of Lawrence Virtual School,

who earned $1,250 and advanced to the state competition in April with his app concept, BrainQuest, designed to strengthen critical thinking and problemsolving skills through research-based exercises. Dao, who also claimed the top prize last year, was one of 13 students representing nine businesses in this year’s challenge.

Other top finishers included:

Third place: Freshman Trudy Kirkland of Lawrence High School, whose Mindful Machine concept features vending machines stocked with cleaningredient snacks and drinks.

Fourth place: Eighth-grader Abhirup Maity of Billy Mills Middle School with Ecofy, a plant-focused business idea promoting accessible greenery.

Innovate Globally Prize: Libya Elshekhi, Abigail Poindexter, and Penny Whittier of Billy Mills Middle School

for Pure Plate, a sustainability-focused restaurant concept.

The event was judged by a panel of local business leaders and community members, including representatives from the KU Small Business Development Center, K-State Extension Douglas County, Douglas County E-Community, and local entrepreneurs.

Assistant County Administrator Jill Jolicoeur organized and facilitated the challenge with support from E-Community Coach and entrepreneur Nicole Rials. Sponsors included Douglas County, Network Kansas, and KU Innovation Park.

For Baldwin City, Bryan’s success reflects the growing presence of young makers and entrepreneurs who are turning hands-on skills into real business opportunities — proof that innovation isn’t limited to big cities, but continues to grow right here at home.

CHAMBER BANQUET HIGHLIGHT REEL 2025

AWARD WINNERS