Organizers of the annual Christmas Window Decorating Contest are inviting businesses, artists, and community members to help transform downtown Great Bend into a festive holiday destination this season.
Now in its seventh year, the contest once again offers $3,000 in prize money, thanks to the generosity of an anonymous donor who hopes the event will showcase downtown Great Bend and strengthen its reputation as "The Christmas City."
"We've seen some truly remarkable displays over the years, and we'd love to see even more participation this season," said the anonymous donor. "Whether you're a business owner or someone with a talent for decorating, your creativity can help make downtown Great Bend a holiday destination for residents and visitors alike."
The Christmas Window Decorating Contest is organized by the Rosewood Roots & Wings Santa Committee, which also oversees Santas Around the World, the multicultural holiday exhibit that opens each Christmas season in downtown Great Bend. After coordinating the contest during its first four years and stepping aside the past two seasons, Rosewood Roots & Wings is returning to help bring creativity and festive cheer back to downtown storefronts.
Winners will be announced Dec. 11 through local media outlets. Window displays must be family-friendly, festive, and original. Entries will be judged on originality, workmanship, overall presentation, and use of lighting.
New this year, judges will select winners in five award categories, an increase of two more categories compared to previous years.
The grand prize for “Best Overall Window” is $1,000, while four “Runner-Up” awards will each receive $500.
Contest boundaries extend from 10th Street to 18th Street and from Williams Street to Kansas Avenue in Great Bend.
There is no fee to participate. Contestants are responsible for providing their own decorating materials and supplies.
Downtown business owners are encouraged to enter their storefronts into the contest, while individuals interested in decorating may also participate. Participants without access to a storefront may be paired with an available vacant downtown window, based on availability. Independent decorators may also work directly with participating business owners.
Applications must be submitted by 5 p.m. Nov. 2 to be eligible for judging. Window displays must be completed by noon Nov. 23. Judging will take place between Nov. 23 and Dec. 4.
Applications, contest rules, and additional information are available online at: SantasAroundTheWorld.com/Window-Contest; or Interested participants may contact SantasAroundTheWorld@gmail.com, 620-792-2536 to request an application.
Even businesses that choose not to enter the contest are encouraged to decorate their storefronts to help create a festive holiday atmosphere throughout downtown.
"When people stroll through downtown after hours and view our decorated windows, they discover businesses they may not have noticed before," said the anonymous donor. "A welcoming and vibrant downtown benefits everyone. Every decorated storefront helps create an experience that encourages visitors to return, shop locally, and support our community."
-SANTAS-
Find more about Santas Around The World online, https://www.SantasAroundTheWorld.com/
Follow us at facebook.com/SantasAroundTheWorld
For more information, contact Michael Dawes, Rosewood Services PR Director, MichaelD@rosewoodservices.com, 620-792-2536.
October 15, 2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Story by: Michael Dawes, director of public relations, Rosewood Services, 620-792-2536, MichaelD@rosewoodservices.com, 620-792-2536.
Rosewood Miracle Workers AKTION Club’s 12th Annual “Coloring Book and Crayon Drive” is happening now through the month of November.
Upon completion of the drive on Nov. 30, club members will distribute the donated items to community charities that serve children.
“The Coloring Book Drive remains one of our club’s most cherished community service projects,” said Rosewood AKTION Club sponsor Frankie Pelster. “Our members take tremendous pride in helping brighten the lives of area children who are in need. We are deeply appreciative of the community members who have supported this effort year after year, and we look forward to partnering with them again to continue this longstanding tradition of kindness and generosity.”
People can drop off coloring book and crayon donations, along with monetary donations for the purchase of coloring books and crayons to two locations in downtown Great Bend. Those locations are Rosewood Furniture Gallery, 1607 Main Street; and Rosewood Bargain Barn, 1215 Main Street.
For the eighth consecutive year, Rosewood AKTION Club is in a friendly competition with Rosewood Services employees to see which group can raise the most items. Rosewood AKTION Club receives the help of community donated items counting toward its numbers.
“The friendly rivalry is always a lot of fun, but ultimately, everyone wins when area children receive coloring books and crayons,” expressed Pelster. “This drive has become a labor of love for our club members and Rosewood Services staff. Over the years, we’ve had fun competing, while also joining together to deliver thousands of smiles through this project. We’re excited to carry on that tradition, with the help of our generous community.”
For questions about Rosewood AKTION Club’s Coloring Book and Crayon Drive, contact Pelster at 620-796-2242; employmentspecialist@RosewoodServices.com.
Rosewood AKTION Club is an affiliate of the national Kiwanis organization that promotes service in action for people with developmental disabilities. The area club allows Rosewood clients to be actively involved in the community and to positively impact the lives of others.
-RW-
Graphic: Rosewood AKTION Club coloring book drive
Find more about Rosewood Services online, http://RosewoodServices.com
Follow us at facebook.com/RosewoodServices
For more information, contact Frankie Pelster, Rosewood AKTION Club sponsor, employmentspecialist@rosewoodservices.com, 620-796-2242.
October 13, 2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Story by: Michael Dawes, director of PR, Rosewood Services, 620-792-2536, MichaelD@rosewoodservices.com
Perfect early-fall weather, confident participants, and dedicated volunteers made for a successful day and helped capture an abundance of memorable moments during the 22nd Annual Rosewood Rodeo, held at Barton County Fair Grounds Expo III Arena on Oct. 3.
Twenty-six equine therapy participants displayed their horsemanship skills at this year’s rodeo. They showcased the skills they developed throughout the year from participating in equine therapy at Rosewood Ranch. Located five miles north of Pawnee Rock, Rosewood Ranch exists to help people with developmental disabilities. The Rodeo is the grand day annually that equine therapy participants get to showcase their abilities to family, friends and community members.
The autumn temperatures provided ideal conditions for participants and horses alike. The pleasant weather was especially welcome after three days of heavy rains earlier in the week created challenges for horse handlers working to keep the horses clean, comfortable, and ready to compete.
"Our therapy horses had to stay outside for periods of time, so we had to prevent them from taking mud baths in order to keep them looking good when they entered the arena” explained Rosewood Ranch Manger Eric Hammond. “But with the weather turning out so nice on rodeo day, that really was a big help to us. Mild weather was the icing on the cake that helped our rodeo participants and the horses. It seemed like the excitement was up a notch for our participants this year."
Months of equine therapy preparation paid off as participants entered the arena ready to perform in front of an audience, competing in Trail Pattern in the morning and Barrel Racing in the afternoon. Hammond said that participants spent significant time ahead of the rodeo practicing patterns and they arrived prepared for the day's events.
One standout example Hammond pointed toward was participant Shawn Minor, who began riding only last year. After competing in the youth division last year, Minor stepped up to compete in the adult division for the first time.
"He's made big steps from one level to the next," said Hammond. "The veteran riders took him under their wing, and he was confidently participating right alongside of them."
New equine therapy rider Sarah Burrill also delivered an impressive performance, said Hammond.
“She was full of nerves as the rodeo drew closer,” Hammond said. “But she didn’t show it when she entered the arena in front of the crowd. She had an amazing rodeo.”
Also experiencing Rosewood Rodeo as an adult rider for the first time was Weslie Jones, who rode a few times several years ago in the youth division. Hammond said it was great to have Jones back in the saddle competing again at Rosewood Rodeo.
Joining the novice adult riders were rodeo teammates Crystal Alkire, Pam Babcock, Robin Bethel, Stacy Buchwald, Keith Boyer, Vance Cornwell, Chris Devine, Jonathan Folkerts, Logan Gregg, Codie Hardie, Taylor Hertach, DJ Johnson, Shaun Ledesma, Tyler Michaelis, Kaleb Nixon, Cierra Roberts, Tori Rose, Landon Titsworth, Jim West, and Jim Wonsetler.
In addition to the adult riders, Rosewood’s youth riders, involved in the Children’s Equine Therapy Program, participated in a trail pattern event at the beginning of the rodeo. At the end of each of their rides, the youth riders received a ribbon for their participation and they were photographed with their award. Youth riders participating in this year’s rodeo were Vada, Karl, and Kyler.
Therapy horses participating in this year’s rodeo were Jordan, Harriet, Colonel, and MR. Red. All of them have at least five years of Rosewood Rodeo experience.
{image_2}
Rosewood’s Percheron wagon team of Dixie and Dolly made their appearance during the grand entry. The Honorable Kansas Supreme Court Justice Dan Biles provided the invocation during the rodeo grand entry ceremony, which began the day’s events.
Other events throughout the day added to the rodeo experience. They included two performances by the all-female horse-riding drill team, “The American Freedom Riders,” participating in their second consecutive Rosewood Rodeo. Day Services Team won a staff competition for the second consecutive year against the Residential Services and Administration Teams. A silent auction of items donated by local businesses was held to raise money, with proceeds from the auction going to Rosewood’s Roots and Wings Foundation. And a tack shop also provided items for sale, selling items made by Rosewood clients who work at Rosewood Studio and other Rosewood Retail locations. Games and activities entertained children throughout the day. A pulled pork lunch, along with a variety of concession items, was available for purchase during the rodeo.
Immediately following the rodeo, awards were presented. Robin Bethel earned the medal for “Best Cowboy Spirit;” Sarah Burrill was named “Most Improved Rider;” and Jonathan Folkerts won the “Most Inspirational Leader” award.
Ribbons were presented to participants for Trails, along with Barrel and Horsemanship events. The clients competed in three levels, depending on their riding ability: rider with lead and side-walker, rider with lead, and independent rider.
During the awards ceremony, high point and reserve awards were presented to Horse Show participants. The adult therapy riders were recognized in front of their peers and spectators for earning the most points in their respective categories during Horse Show Days at Rosewood Ranch throughout this year. Sashes were awarded to winners, representing three divisions in the categories of Trail and Horsemanship. Awards were also presented for Showmanship.
Winners in each respective category were: High Point Trail – Sarah Burrill, Debbie Wasinger, Crystal Alkire; Reserve Trail – Cierra Roberts, Pam Babcock, Jim Wonsetler; High Point Horsemanship – Tori Rose, Keith Boyer, Shaun Ledesma; Reserve Horsemanship – Tyler Michaelis, Jim West, Jim Wonsetler; High Point Showmanship – Chris Devine; and Reserve Showmanship – Shaun Ledesma.
This year’s rodeo was sponsored by 20 businesses. Sponsors were: Great Bend Appliance Furniture & Sleep Source; Great Bend Tribune; Heartland Homecare Services/Tarrytown Expo Care; Kustom Floor Designs; Moeder Plumbing, Heating & Air; Office Products Inc.; Rosencrantz-Bemis Enterprises; Adams Brown Strategic Allies and CPAS; AlternaCare Home Medical Equipment; Animal Medical Center; Keller Real Estate and Insurance Agency; Marmie Auto Group; Miller Lawns; MPIRE Properties; Peoples Bank & Trust; Stone Sand Co.; University of Kansas Health System - Great Bend; Wheatland Electric; Zip Stop Inc.; and Price & Sons Construction.
Approximately 50 people helped at this year’s event, which was organized by the Rosewood Rodeo Committee, led by Rodeo Chairman Anna Hammond. It also included longtime Rosewood Rodeo announcer Rob Emery, who kept information about the participants and Rosewood Services flowing throughout the day. Rodeo judges this year were Joel Jackson and Melonie Myers. Jackson has served as a judge for many years, while Myers took on a new role as a judge this year.
“Rosewood Rodeo is truly a labor of love for so many people,” said Rosewood CEO Tammy Hammond. “Over the years, incredible relationships have been built through a shared commitment to making this event a success. From our riders and volunteers to families, friends, supporters, donors, and sponsors, each person and business plays an important role in celebrating the individuals in Rosewood’s award-winning equine therapy program.
We are deeply grateful to everyone who helped make this year’s rodeo possible. Because of your generosity, dedication, and belief in our mission, participants, their families and friends, along with our staff have created new wonderful memories that will last a lifetime.”
-RW-
Find more about Rosewood Services online, RosewoodServices.com
Follow us: facebook.com/RosewoodServices/
For more information, contact Eric Hammond, EricH@rosewoodservices.com, 620-792-2536
October 8, 2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Story by: Michael Dawes, director of PR, Rosewood Services, 620-792-2536, MichaelD@rosewoodservices.com
If you are interested in a fun opportunity to purchase quality items at under-market-value prices, then come by Rosewood Rodeo, Saturday, Oct. 3.
The auction is part of the 22nd Annual Rodeo, held at Barton County Fair Expo III Indoor Arena, two miles west on 10th and Patton Road, Great Bend. In conjunction with the rodeo’s grand entry, the Rosewood Silent Auction will begin at 10 a.m. Then bids will be accepted throughout the day until the auction closes at 2 p.m. Winning bidders will be contacted following the silent auction, so they don’t have to be present to win.
During the auction, there are more than 70 items to bid on, ranging in retail value from approximately $25 to nearly $500. These items are all new products and most likely will sell for well under their retail value. Auction items include a wide variety of merchandise like a 32-inch LG Smart TV with a starting bid of $100; and a King Kooker Outdoor Fryer that has an opening bid of $23.
Also included for bidding are multiple gift baskets, some valued at more than $100 with opening bids of $25. Many wonderful gift cards, certificates and passes are available that are most often purchased for under their face value. Unique items made by local artists and crafters are also available among the many auction items.
For a preview, bidders can access photos of the auction items at https://flickr.com/photos/rosewood_services/albums/72177720335881397
All the auction items were donated by community businesses and individuals as a fundraiser to Rosewood Roots & Wings Foundation. Rosewood’s non-profit Roots & Wings Foundation provides unmet medical and therapeutic needs, legal assistance, along with educational opportunities to people who have developmental disabilities.
-RW-
Find more about Rosewood Services online, RosewoodServices.com
Follow us on Facebook, facebook.com/RosewoodServices/
For more information, contact Frankie Pelster, EmploymentSpecialist@rosewoodservices.com, 620-603-6502.
September 29, 2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Story by: Michael Dawes, director of PR, Rosewood Services, 620-792-2536, MichaelD@rosewoodservices.com
Storm Special Olympics athletes Darren Brown and Sarah Burrill were among 30 participants selected to attend the “All Abilities Football Camp,” hosted by the Kansas City Chiefs at Arrowhead Stadium on Sept. 22.
Ten of the athletes chosen were randomly selected by Special Olympics Kansas. They joined athletes from Special Olympics Missouri and YMCA of Greater Kansas City. The athletes participated in the experience from 5-8 p.m. and were joined by Kansas City Cheerleaders, KC Wolf, Kansas City Glory women’s tackle football players, and a few of the Kansas City Chiefs players.
Amanda Hammond, Storm Local Program Coordinator, accompanied the Storm athletes, along with several of their family members. Hammond said the event was well-organized, and she was impressed by the visual impact it had on the Storm Team members.
“For Sarah and Darren, neither one of them had even been to Arrowhead Stadium before, so naturally, they were awestruck and excited at first, just by walking from the tunnel onto the field.” explained Hammond. “At the end, they both said this was the coolest experience they’ve ever had. They were having a great time interacting with the other athletes as well as all the staff, cheerleaders and Glory and Chiefs players. Of course, they enjoyed KC Wolf, who’s always hyping up everyone.”
{image_2}
Hammond described the football camp activities: Athletes first lined up with Chiefs Cheerleaders and KC Wolf to do stretches and warm-ups. Then they split into three groups to do drills involving foot work, defense, and passing. The drills were led by the Kansas City Glory players with a few of the Kansas City Chiefs players.
Each group got to participate in all three drills. Players then participated in a flag-grabbing game. Afterward, they gathered for group photos and then each athlete received their official NFL Chiefs jersey. They were then allowed to collect autographs and pick up their swag bags, which were full of Chiefs souvenirs.
“To see this event in person, is truly exceptional,” explained Hammond. ““Watching their excitement and anticipation, and seeing them successfully complete the drills, is something I will always remember. Some of the activities required a great deal of concentration, coordination, and physical effort. Sarah and Darren were proud of what they accomplished because they pushed themselves and had fun doing it. It was rewarding to witness their achievements in such a remarkable setting, and I’m grateful I had the opportunity to be part of that experience.”
-STORM-
{image_3}
View More STORM 2026 All Abilities Camp with KC Chiefs Photos
View More Special Olympics Kansas 2026 All Abilities Camp with KC Chiefs Photos
View More Kansas City Chiefs 2026 All Abilities Camp Official Photos
For more information, contact Amanda Hammond, Storm Team Local Program Coordinator, AmandaH@rosewoodservices.com, 620-793-5888.
September 28, 2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Story by: Michael Dawes, director of PR, Rosewood Services, 620-792-2536, MichaelD@rosewoodservices.com
The 22nd Annual Rosewood Rodeo returns Saturday, Oct. 3, from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Barton County Fair Grounds Expo III Arena, located two miles west of 10th and Patton Road, Great Bend. The community is invited to enjoy a full day of free, family‑friendly fall fun—no admission required.
The rodeo is a cherished annual highlight for equine‑therapy riders from Rosewood Services, who spend the year developing their horsemanship skills at Rosewood Ranch, a full‑working horse ranch near Pawnee Rock. At the ranch, children and adults with developmental disabilities learn to ride and care for horses, gaining confidence, independence, and joy through hands‑on experience.
“This is absolutely our favorite time of the year,” said Rosewood CEO Tammy Hammond. “The change in season brings the return of our Rosewood Rodeo, where our equine‑therapy riders proudly show what they’ve learned throughout the year. It’s a day filled with joy for riders and heartfelt experiences for the families, friends, and staff who come out to cheer them on.”
Spectators can come and go throughout the day and enjoy a variety of activities, including children’s games and face painting. Chuck Wagon Concessions will offer reasonably priced meals, including a pulled‑pork lunch.
The American Freedom Riders horse‑riding drill team will perform twice—at 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. — with each show featuring a different program. (Performance times are approximate.)
The rodeo’s Grand Entry and Flag Ceremony begins at 10 a.m., followed by therapeutic riding events for Rosewood riders throughout the day that includes a special event for children riders. An award ceremony, scheduled for approximately 3 p.m., will close out the rodeo.
During the rodeo, attendees can participate in a silent auction, featuring high‑quality merchandise and excellent deals. All bids close at 2 p.m. Proceeds benefit Rosewood’s nonprofit Roots & Wings Foundation, which provides therapeutic, medical, educational, and recreational support for people with developmental disabilities.
Plan to attend any or all of the day’s events while browsing tack-shop merchandise, which will be available throughout the day.
{image_2}
Below is a listing of events slated for this year’s Rosewood Rodeo:
Family Fall Fun! Free Admittance!
● Kids’ Games and Activities, including Face Painting
● “American Freedom Riders” Drill Team Performances
● Tack Shop with Novelties and Rosewood Client-Made Items
● Silent Auction
● Chuck Wagon Concessions
● Two Rodeo Events by Rosewood Services Adult Riders
● One Rodeo Event by Rosewood Services Children Riders
● Staff and Kids’ Races
● Award Ceremony for Rodeo Participants
Sponsors of this year's Rosewood Rodeo are: Great Bend Appliance Furniture & Sleep Source; Great Bend Tribune; Heartland Homecare Services/Tarrytown Expo Care; Kustom Floor Designs; Moeder Plumbing, Heating & Air; Office Products Inc.; Rosencrantz-Bemis Enterprises; Adams Brown Strategic Allies and CPAS; AlternaCare Home Medical Equipment; Animal Medical Center; Keller Real Estate and Insurance Agency; Marmie Auto Group; Miller Lawns; MPIRE Properties; Peoples Bank & Trust; Stone Sand Co.; University of Kansas Health System - Great Bend; Wheatland Electric; Zip Stop Inc.; and Price & Sons Construction.
-RW-
Find more about Rosewood Services online, RosewoodServices.com
Follow us on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RosewoodServices/
For more information, contact Michael Dawes, Director of PR, MichaelD@rosewoodservices.com, 620-792-2536
September 15, 2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Story by: Michael Dawes, director of PR, Rosewood Services, 620-792-2536, MichaelD@rosewoodservices.com
After more than a quarter‑century of serving people with developmental disabilities at Rosewood Services, a modest Vickie Booze walked into the Rosewood Administration Conference Room for her final meeting in the early afternoon on Aug. 26. The meeting was a retirement reception planned for her, where Rosewood Services proudly recognized Booze, a longtime Case Manager and Residential Director whose impact touched hundreds of lives within the agency.
Booze began her Rosewood career on May 1, 2000, bringing with her a strong background in the medical field and a lifelong commitment to caring for others. During her 26‑year tenure, she spent 18 years in Case Management, consistently supporting more than 40 individuals at a time and ultimately providing case management services to nearly 600 individuals during her span. She also served eight years as Residential Director with Rosewood.
Her dedication extended far beyond office walls. Living in Larned throughout her career, Vickie logged more than 16,000 miles traveling to and from her job most weekdays, a testament to her unwavering commitment.
As she closes this chapter, Booze said that she feels “ready to start a new chapter,” and looks forward to retirement with a simple, but joyful plan. “I plan to do whatever I want, and enjoy one day at a time,” Booze exclaimed.
When reflecting on her years spent serving people with disabilities, Vickie shared that “it’s the little things that count; knowing you are making a difference in their lives. It’s important to always remember why you are there.”
Summing up her 26 years in one message, Booze chose a sentiment that reflects her heart for service: “Make every day count in someone’s life.”
Rosewood Services Founder and CEO Tammy Hammond provided a heartfelt message to Booze, summarizing her career with the agency.
“This moment causes me to stop and realize how quickly time passes,” expressed Hammond, whose agency was just two years old when Booze came on board. “Twenty-six years seems nearly impossible to comprehend. My true appreciation is hard to put into words — the friendship, and the ability to trust someone for so long.
For 26 years of your life, you chose to show up every day and give your time, energy, and care to the people we serve. That is no small thing. I am deeply grateful — and honestly a little humbled — that you shared so many years of your life here with us, being the steady, reliable presence that all of us could count on.
Thank you for that commitment. It has mattered. You made a difference for all of us.”
-RW-
Find out more about Rosewood Services online, RosewoodServices.com
Follow us at facebook.com/RosewoodServices
For more information, contact Vicki Schmitt, Rosewood Services Senior Director, VickiS@rosewoodservices.com, 620-793-5888.
September 1, 2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Story by: Michael Dawes, director of public relations, Rosewood Services, 620-792-2536, MichaelD@rosewoodservices.com
{image_1}
The Self Advocate Coalition of Kansas (SACK) Conference delivered a fresh experience this year for first‑timers and longtime attendees. After three consecutive years in Wichita, the conference shifted to a new setting, bringing dozens of advocates from across the state and region to Manhattan, Kan., for its June 19–21 gathering at the DoubleTree by Hilton.
With 19 participants, including six first‑time attendees, Rosewood Services represented one of the largest groups at this year’s conference. They were joined by two sponsors and two staff volunteers. Attending their inaugural conference for Kansans with disabilities were Rosewood’s Courtney Adams, Whitney Jones, Kyla Martin, Trace Ritterhouse, Tori Rose, and Dawn Specht. They were joined by veteran Rosewood attendees Pam Babcock, Darren Brown, Kurtis Coleman, Karla Franklin, Rae Griffin, Codie Hardie, Ashley Hullett, Austin Orozco, Samantha Purcell, Destiny Thomas, Corey Triplett, Jeannie Triplett, and Jim Wonsetler.
Rosewood sponsors were Frankie Pelster and Tonya Burton. Staff volunteers attending for Rosewood this year were Teri Coleman, Marsha George, and Tahcoa Pelster.
This year’s conference theme was “Let’s G.R.O.W: Growth, Rights, Opportunity, Work.” Fitting to the theme, Rosewood participants experienced a weekend of growth, discovery, and the power of self‑advocacy.
During the “Self‑Advocacy 101” session, Whitney Jones said the experience opened her eyes to new possibilities — including marriage and the importance of standing up for oneself. Jeannie Triplett gained fresh insight into wages and earning potential through community employment during the “Wages” session.
For Pam Babcock, the weekend became a personal milestone. She roomed independently, navigated sessions meals mostly on her own, and gained confidence. In the end, the conference wasn’t just about what she learned in workshops; it was about what she discovered within herself.
{image_2}
Rosewood sponsor Frankie Pelster said those types of moments — big and small — are why Rosewood Services makes a concerted effort to bring such a large group of participants every year.
“The conference is a wonderful event where our self-advocates learn a lot, while meeting other people and creating lifelong friendships and bonds,” said Pelster.
She said that the most popular sessions attended by Rosewood participants were: “Art as Therapy,” which all participants attend, then breakout sessions “Self-Advocates will lead the way!” “Advocacy in the Age of AI,” “Working for Money,” “Healthy Relationships,” and “Supported Decision Making.” There were a dozen breakout sessions and Pelster pointed out that Rosewood was represented at all sessions.
“All of the activity makes for a very long weekend and it takes a tremendous amount of work by all of us involved,” explained Pelster. “But, it’s such an important conference for our folks to attend. By the time next year rolls around, we’ll all be energized to do it again.”
{image_3}
Next year’s conference will be held in Manhattan for the second consecutive year.
“We’re definitely going again, and we’re taking another large group.” promised Pelster. “It’s such a good conference for them to attend.”
{image_4}
-RW-
Find more about Rosewood Services online, rosewoodservices.com
Follow us at facebook.com/RosewoodServices
For more information, contact Frankie Pelster, AKTION Club Sponsor, employmentspecialist@rosewoodservices.com, 620-603-6502.
June 26, 2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Story by: Michael Dawes, director of PR, Rosewood Services, 620-792-2536, MichaelD@rosewoodservices.com
The best‑laid plans went awry for Central Kansas’ Storm Special Olympics Team as athletes wrapped up their 2025–26 sports campaign. Competing at the Special Olympics Kansas State Track and Field Championships at Maize South High School June 5–7, the meet was cut short Saturday afternoon by a heavy downpour. Sunday’s events were also washed out, bringing an early end to the Summer Games and leaving 14 Storm athletes unable to compete in five scheduled running and walking events.
Despite the setback — and the obvious disappointment felt by athletes —Storm Local Program Coordinator Amanda Hammond is choosing to focus on the bigger picture: a season filled with growth, achievement, and team pride.
“I reminded them that having their events canceled doesn’t take away from what they accomplished this year,” said Hammond. “We keep record of their times and marks throughout the season, and many of them achieved personal bests. Several athletes were timid at the start, but by the end they had come out of their shells and built strong friendships. And even with the weather, we still enjoyed opening ceremonies, the dance, the Healthy Athletes program, and time together at the hotel. The extra downtime actually gave us more team‑bonding opportunities.”
One of the weekend’s most memorable moments came before the team even reached Wichita. The Great Bend Police Department escorted the Storm Team bus out of town — a gesture the athletes hadn’t experienced in more than a decade.
“That gesture really hyped up the athletes,” Hammond said. “They talked about it the whole way to Wichita. It was pretty special. We appreciate the Great Bend Police Department taking time out of their busy schedule to do that for our athletes.”
{image_2}
The end of the track season also marked the conclusion of a busy year for Storm Special Olympics, which included fall bowling, winter basketball and cheerleading, and spring track and field.
This year, 44 athletes competed in at least one sport—13 fewer than last year’s record turnout, but still a strong showing compared to previous seasons. Hammond noted that it’s typical for some athletes to take a year off, and many return the following season. The team also welcomed several new athletes this year.
Storm athletes who made the trip to state were: Kaleb Beckham, Darren Brown, Michael Burress, Sarah Burrill, Chris Devine, David Edwardson, Logan Gregg, Jenny Harris, Audrey Koester, Dylan Lebbin, Austin Levingston, Donnie Lewis, Rian Lewis, Michael Manka, Rita Mestas, Cierra Roberts, Tori Rose, Curtis Schneweis, Jacob Shackelford, Elisa Shores, Steve Smolik, Caitlyn Stinger, Josh Trimmer, and Jim Wonsetler.
Storm’s track coaching staff included Hammond, Emily Komarek, Denice Whetham, Missy Dwight, and Stu Hogg. Volunteers Carole and Amy Edwardson also provided valuable support at meets and throughout the season.
The spring schedule began just days after Storm athletes wrapped up state basketball and cheerleading championships in Hays in late March. Weather delays cost the team several early practices, but they still competed at the Special Olympics Kansas regional meet in Dodge City in late April. In mid‑May, Storm athletes joined local law enforcement in Larned for the annual Special Olympics Torch Run.
“I like how our season sets up,” Hammond said. “Bowling gets athletes back into the flow. Basketball and cheer are full‑team efforts. Then track gives athletes a chance to focus on individual improvement. As a whole, this season was extremely successful. I credit our amazing athletes, and also our coaches and volunteers, for putting in the time and effort to make the strides we achieved this year.”
{image_3}
-STORM-
For more information, contact Amanda Hammond, Storm Team Local Program Coordinator, AmandaH@rosewoodservices.com, 620-793-5888.
June 12, 2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Story by: Michael Dawes, director of PR, Rosewood Services, 620-792-2536, MichaelD@rosewoodservices.com
{image_1}
It's not too early to set your sights on this year's Rosewood Rodeo!
The 22nd annual equine-therapy rodeo will take place Saturday, Oct. 3 from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Barton County Fair Grounds Expo III Arena, located two miles west on 10th and Patton Road, Great Bend.
Throughout the Rosewood Rodeo, the public is invited to come out and experience family-friendly fall fun. There is no admission charge.
The annual rodeo is a highlight of the year for equine-therapy riders from Rosewood Services, who practice their riding skills at Rosewood Ranch on a weekly basis throughout the year. Rosewood Ranch is a full-working horse ranch near Pawnee Rock, where people with developmental disabilities learn to ride and care for approximately 75 horses.
Rodeo-day fun includes children’s activities and games, a photo booth, and face painting. It’s a come-and-go event for spectators, so people can choose the times they wish to attend. Reasonably priced Chuck Wagon Concessions are also available, which includes a pulled pork lunch.
In between the day’s rodeo events, there will be two horse-riding performances. The performer will be named as the event draws closer.
The 22nd Annual Rosewood Rodeo’s grand entry and flag ceremony is scheduled for 10 a.m. Then, throughout the day, therapeutic rodeo events will be held for Rosewood Services riders, including an event for children riders, followed by the award ceremony at approximately 3 p.m.
During the rodeo, the public can participate in a silent auction, where they can expect to find excellent deals on merchandise, with all bids closing at 2:45 p.m. Proceeds from the auction go to Rosewood’s non-profit Roots & Wings Foundation. The foundation provides therapeutic, medical, educational and recreational opportunities to people in need, who have developmental disabilities.
Plan to attend any or all of the day’s events while browsing tack-shop merchandise, which will be available throughout the day.
Below is a listing of events slated for this year’s Rosewood Rodeo:
Family Fun! Free Admittance!
● Kids’ Games and Activities, including Face Painting
● Horse-Riding Drill Team Performances
● Tack Shop with Novelties and Rosewood Client-Made Items
● Photo Booth
● Silent Auction
● Chuck Wagon Concessions
● Two Rodeo Events by Rosewood Services Adult Riders
● One Rodeo Event by Rosewood Services Children Riders
● Staff Races
● Award Ceremony for Rodeo Participants
-RW-
Find more about Rosewood Services online, RosewoodServices.com
Follow us on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/RosewoodServices/
For more information, contact Michael Dawes, Director of PR, MichaelD@rosewoodservices.com, 620-792-2536
June 3, 2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Story by: Michael Dawes, director of PR, Rosewood Services, 620-792-2536, MichaelD@rosewoodservices.com