Moran will honor Burns for community efforts
Ceremony is Tuesday
Congressman Jerry Moran will recognize the citizens of Burns with a "Building Better Communities" award that will be presented at a ceremony at 3:15 p.m. Tuesday at Burns Community Center.
Residents will be recognized for continued efforts to sustain and revitalize their community by demonstrating pride through action.
In May, residents transformed the former post office building into a community library and city hall. Burns Public Library Board raised more than $95,000 from private sources to cover project expenses.
In March 2003, a new community center was completed that includes a wellness center, youth room, and kitchen. During the five-month construction period, crews of volunteers worked on the center on a daily basis.
In an effort to promote the community, Burns PRIDE committee sold two-foot tall concrete roosters to local businesses and residents. The local Lions Club purchased a four-foot rooster that serves as a welcome sign on U.S.-77.
Since 1954, families in Burns have hosted international students in their homes during Thanksgiving holidays to give visitors a chance to experience rural, American culture. The community was recognized in 1959 by Vice President Richard Nixon and received a distinguished service award from the Institute of International Education for the idea. During the past 52 years, more than 500 people resenting 110 countries have visited Burns.
Moran established the "Building Better Communities" award to showcase positive community action in Kansas.
