Last fall the city of Ottawa and Franklin County were among 60 finalists in the “Prettiest Painted Places in America” competition. The winners were announced in November, and although it wasn’t one of the 12 winners, Ottawa was one of nine places cited for “exceptional merit.”
Not surprisingly, this contest was sponsored by purveyors of pigment, to wit, “The Paint Quality Institute.” Even so, this eastern Kansas community has good reason to be proud, as a segment on NBC affiliate KSHB explained:
“Here every little space gets decorated. If they have to put up a screen to hide construction, they paint a mural on it. Empty lots become charming courtyards, and there are flowers on every street corner.” Local business owners said they care about their property and their buildings, and they donate their time to maintain them.
Congratulations to Ottawa and Franklin County for making your corner of Kansas a little brighter.
And now, a word to Great Bend:
We’ve also entered a “best of” competition: America’s Promise Alliance’s, “The 100 Best Communities for Young People.” Even though this award has been around for a few years, Kansas City, Lawrence and Salina are the only Kansas communities among past winners. But it’s time to let the world know what we do for young people, from a safe place to “ice skate” in December to the Wetlands Aquatic Center in the summer. There’s the Youth Academy for Middle School students, outreach to students in college and a Young Professionals group. There are also individuals who support young people and youth organizations.
Keep up the good work, Great Bend. We can win this.