Stafford County Economic Development will host the Kansas Department of Commerce at 4 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 7. The Community Impact Tour will arrive at Gray’s Photography Studio, 106 W 2nd Avenue in St. John. The event, which is open to the public, will include light refreshments and opportunities for community engagement.
The Community Impact Tour is a statewide initiative designed to spotlight local projects that are transforming Kansas communities. The tours bring together state officials, local leaders, and community members to celebrate successes, share stories, and raise awareness of how strategic investments are making a tangible difference in towns across Kansas.
Gray’s Photography Studio has been selected as a stop on this tour in recognition of its role as a creative arts center in the region — offering gallery displays, classes, and a space for artistic engagement.
Event Highlights:
Time & Place: 4 p.m., Oct. 7, at Gray’s Photography Studio (106 W 2nd Avenue, St. John)
Agenda:
• Welcome and Update on Stafford County Economic Development, Inc. Projects - Ryan Russell, Executive Director, Stafford County Economic Development, Inc.
• Tour and presentation of Gray’s “impact story” - Carol Long, Board President, Gray’s Photography Studio
• Q&A with community leaders, state representatives, and participants
• Refreshments and informal networking
This stop is part of a broader multi‑day statewide tour. Earlier that day, the tour will visit mural installations in Bushton and Lyons, the Bright Beginnings childcare center and the under‑construction IGNITE Innovation Center in Great Bend, and the Partridge Library project, before arriving in St. John.
About the Community Impact Tour
The Community Impact Tour is an initiative by the Kansas Department of Commerce that spotlights projects and communities across the state which are experiencing growth, innovation, and positive transformation through targeted investments, public-private partnerships, and community visioning. (https://www.kansascommerce.gov/community-impact-tour/)