Burns earns PRIDE awards
Burns was one of just nine communities statewide to receive both Community of Excellence and Star awards Saturday at the Kansas PRIDE program banquet.
There are 68 communities active Kansas PRIDE, which provides technical assistance and training in community improvement.
The Community of Excellence Award recognizes on-going efforts. Winners receive a commemorative display and $500 to apply to future projects.
Program evaluators, who came from five states, said Burns had "an impressive bunch of go-getters" in town.
"This is an exemplary community," the report said. "They are accomplishing every one of their goals by following the strategic planning process. The vision for Burns is one of the most thoughtful and detailed I have ever seen."
In particular, evaluators noted Burns' interest in cultural development, including library expansion, community theater, and plans for a quilting room.
The Star Award recognizes communities for projects initiated or completed in the past year. Recipients receive an award and $300. Burns was selected for its efforts to enhance Memorial Park.
PRIDE is administered through the Kansas Department of Commerce and Housing with support from K-State Research and Extension. For more information, contact the extension office in Marion.
