Elkhart 'Open Doors' big success

[JUNE 15, 2006]  ELKHART -- On June 10 and 11 nearly 2,000 people visited the village of Elkhart, north of Springfield on Interstate 55, often creating traffic jams in this "Norman Rockwell village" that one visitor dubbed "another Galena."

Created to stimulate interest in the village, the "Open Doors Weekend" featured a farmers' market that sold out early, open houses for properties for sale and all business concerns hosting extended hours. The school, all churches, the village hall and fire station were also open for tours and information. The Elkhart Historical Society conducted tours of the Gillett Memorial Chapel and Elkhart Cemetery. Route 66 Association members had their "passports" stamped at the chapel, thus providing an opportunity to drive through this picturesque village. The library conducted a bake sale and a used book sale to raise funds for a planned expansion.

Area realtors and bankers were present to assist potential homebuyers with attractive packages for individual homes as well as for new construction in either of the two subdivisions, Elkhart Hill Estates and Prairie Pointe.

Food and beverage establishments reported near sell-out business during the two-day event, originally created to stimulate interest from people looking for a new place to live. It appears that goal was met, as several people contacted realtors and toured the available properties. "The people of Elkhart are excited to welcome our new residents, and we extend that welcome to potential residents as well," said local developer Rick Kaesebier

Andrea Niehaus, owner of Horsefeathers, indicated a quadrupling of business compared with a normal weekend. According to Niehaus, "Everyone who hadn't been to Elkhart before thought it was like some best-kept secret and a total treasure they want to revisit."

When asked if the weekend-long format was likely to be repeated, Steve Anderson, village president, responded: "I believe planning is already under way to continue this type of promotion. Elkhart is a great place to live, and we are excited to host not only visitors, but also potential residents. I am proud of the initiative of the business community and the developers of the subdivisions."

An all-town garage sale in Elkhart is scheduled for Saturday, including sales at the Christian and Methodist churches. Baked goods will be available at the Methodist Church. Proceeds from sales at the Christian Church will be dedicated to the Children of Pokot Educational Fund, and proceeds at the Methodist Church will be used in the church's mission and community projects. Over 20 garage sales will afford shoppers a wide selection and great values.

[News release]