The $50 Pledge

Were you aware that your purchases, be it retail or service-related, are what keep the businesses "IN Business" in Hodgeman County? If every household in Hodgeman County were to pledge to spend just $50 more a month in Hodgeman County...not more than you are currently spending...just more HERE (as opposed to in other Cities and Counties)...that it would generate an additional $39,800 in revenue? Statistics show that $68 out of every $100 spent locally, stays in Hodgeman County, equaling $27,064.00 every month! I try to look at it as supporting ME. I live here and rely on services and enjoy amenities in my community that I want to support.

What if we could double that? WOW! Talk about a shot in the arm. Forget the "recession"...we have the power to make an economic difference in our community!

This could be fun! Do you want to join me in taking the pledge?

HomeGrown Cantalope

As I walked in the Jetmore Food Center my nose caught the undeniable smell of fresh, ripe cantalope. I followed my nose down the isle and there they were....HUGE! I love cantalope! Mark said that they had just received them and had already sold 150. (Guess that means that there are a lot of us who will be having fresh cantalope for breakfast in the morning.) I "taste-tested" mine while I was cutting it up tonight...it tastes every bit as good as it smells!

HorseThief Reservoir means better economics.

Worm Sales are up! Not breaking news? It is here in Hodgeman County.
Since HorseThief Reservoir opened it's gates on June 26th there have been over 8000 visitors. Some only come to look at the new Reservoir, others come to spend some time there and enjoy this new water-related entertainment. Jet Skis, boats, fishing poles and life jackets are carted in and out on a daily basis; along with picnic and s'more-making supplies. HorseThief is FUN!
The Hutch News did a wonderful front-page piece about HorseThief and it's economic impact today...and KSN News has a story coming out tonight. When you get 8000+ people coming through town, buying gas, ice, and picnic supplies...it adds up! Then add the travelers that stay overnight at the Lodge (our new Motel) and the unfortunate souls that need boat repairs while they're here...and you've got a sizeable impact. Not to mention the locals that purchase boats and now need a place to store them...or the Insurance needs for those that have just purchased boats and jet skis.
Worm Sales at the Jetmore Food Center are up 47% this month! I am excited!

Fun In the Sun at HorseThief!

HorseThief Reservoir opened their gates on Saturday, June 26th. In less than one month...there were over 8000 visitors! Boating, skiing,jet-skiing,swimming, fishing and picnicing are just a few of the fun things I observed people doing! If you haven't taken the time to visit yet...come, and enjoy! Although the rest of the park is still under construction and you can't yet camp...you can stay in the newly completed Pawnee Valley Lodge in Jetmore! Next spring you will be able to enjoy all of the amenities the park will have to offer!

Wonderful Summertime Treats!

We have had a couple of days at 100 degrees or higher...and I have had to start keeping more cash with me for the frequent stops at the Tropical
Sno-Hawaiian Shaved Ice(401 Main Street in Jetmore)! You wouldn't believe how many flavors they have! Of course, my favorite is Wedding Cake (with cream)....but even if I stopped every day for the rest of the summer, I doubt I would have a chance to sample them all. Did you know that they are even serving ice cream now! If you haven't had a chance to visit yet this summer you are missing out on one of the Joys of Summer!

Spring Break

Looking for something to do over spring break? Why not have fun and make a difference at the same time? There are a wide variety of places that need volunteers and you will be amazed at how much YOU get out of it! Volunteering allows you to sharpen your skills...learn new, valuable skills, and contribute back to society in ways that will enrich your life.
Don't allow yourself to become bored...volunteer!
If you are looking for ways to volunteer in Hodgeman County -- please feel free to contact me at hodgeman1@fairpoint.net.

Just a short distance off the beaten path you can walk and relax in the beautiful Kenyon Nature Park in Jetmore. I was there earlier this week and s t r e t c h e d out my lunch hour as long as I could...it was such a nice place to be refreshed and rejuvenated! I can't believe that there aren't more Wedding and Graduation photos taken from the little bridge on the South End! Take a few minutes to enjoy it for yourself!

Vintage Base Ball

It's springtime and we're all ready for some Base Ball in Hodgeman County! No, I didn't misspell it...in the 1860's Base Ball was two words and in Hodgeman County we get a kick out of playing Vintage Base Ball! Vintage Base Ball combines the sport of Base Ball with a living history lesson...it's fun AND Educational!
If you would like to join the team -- schedule a game with us for your festival or event -- or even just come and watch one of the games -- contact Mark Wellbrock at 620-357-6441. We are finalizing the 2010 schedule now.
Go to www.hodgemancountyks.com and click on the Recreational Link to learn more.

RCD

Are you familiar with RC&D? RC&D is one of the most successful rural development programs of the Federal Government. Began in 1962...they have grown and evolved and empower Rural Americans to work together to help make their lives and their communities better places!
RC&D is short for Resource Conservation and Development. Hodgeman County is part of the Coronado Crossing RC&D...this particular RC&D covers 7 counties in SW Kansas.
RC&D's help people protect and develop their economic,natural and social resources in ways that improve their area's economy, environment, and quality of life. They provide ways for people to plan and implement projects that will make their communities a better place to live. They bring together people, needs, opportunities, and solutions.
Anyone can join an RC&D! If you want to improve the quality of life in your community and believe that you can make a difference...we need you!
For more information, google RC&D programs, or contact Lea Ann E. Seiler at hodgeman1@fairpoint.net and I will get you in touch with an RC&D representative in your area.

Springtime

I, for one, am done with winter. Of course I understand that that doesn't mean it's going to be over right away -- but if yesterday was a glimpse of what's to come -- I am SO ready!
The kids rode bikes, played with the dog, jumped rope, and just generally spent the day outside soaking up the sunshine! I know it wont be long before the flowers will be blooming at the Veterans Memorial and City Parks, Community Easter Egg Hunts will take place, the engines will be roaring at The Great American Dirt Track, and HorseThief Reservoir will be opening! Life is good in Hodgeman County! If you live here already, enjoy. If you don't...come and visit us!