PITTSBURG, Kan. — Pittsburg Beautiful has announced its September award winners. The recipients are Clayton and Holly Kent, 2005 E. 14th St.; Bill and Barbara Crawford, 502 Madison St.; and The Finishing Touch, 622 N. Broadway.
Clayton and Holly Kent started on their property eight years ago when they purchased a 10-acre cow pasture to build a home. They wanted to transform the property into more of a park-like setting. Since then, they have planted more than 50 trees, encompassing a wide array of more than a dozen varieties.
“We strive to maintain a balance, creating a manicured environment that is also wildlife-friendly on our property,” said the Kents.
The Kents spend four to five hours a week working on their property and feel it is a personal satisfaction and enjoyment to improve the look and feel of the community. This is also helpful for enhancing the city’s overall appeal, economic well-being and the quality of life for its residents, they said.
Bill and Barbara Crawford have lived at their property about three years. They moved to this home due to losing their previous home to a fire. During COVID and a lay-off, Bill decided to completely redo the house to bring it up to its present look. They still plan to do more around the property and spend about five hours a week maintaining it.
“Maintainence for your property is key to establishing good neighborhoods and avoiding major property repair and costs. If the neighborhoods are nice, clean and neat, it makes the city inviting. This helps our city to grow and advances the residents’ opportunities for success.”
The Finishing Touch has completed a new façade on the historic building. Owned by Ruth Ellen Simpson and managed by Beth Bradshaw, they have been a part of downtown Pittsburg for 42 years. They wanted to be proud of how it looked on the outside as well.
“Pittsburg has blessed us and supported us for so many years. We are excited to continue to be a cornerstone of downtown as well as the community.”
Pittsburg Beautiful is urging residents to “Nominate your neighbor!” The organization recognizes those in the community who take pride in maintaining their homes and businesses. Those interested can send nominations to Pittsburg Beautiful c/o Pittsburg Parks and Recreation at P.O. Box 688, Pittsburg, Kansas 66762. Nominations need to include the property owner’s name and address.
