StratPlan VII

Strategic Plan VII Forward at the Speed of Progress
The Greater Morris County Development Corporation (GMDC) and the Council Grove/Morris County Chamber of Commerce and Tourism co-sponsored a series of meetings during 2008 and 2009 to review Strategic Plan #6 (StratPlan VI) and develop Strategic Plan #7 (StratPlan VII). Meetings were conducted the evenings of 13 and 20 November, 2008 and 15 January 2009.

The meetings were facilitated by Don Wissman, PhD, who also facilitated the development of StratPlan VI. During the first meeting, Dr. Wissman led the group through the discussion of “what’s right” about Morris County; “what needs doing” and “what are our priorities”. The second session was spent listing the challenges faced by the county and its citizens, then developed six Primary Pillars as an approach to “fixing what’s wrong” about Morris County – then sub-committees were formed to develop reports on the six pillars including (1) Positive Attitude – City/County Cooperation, (2) Developing a Marketing Plan, (3) Keeping Local Dollars Locally, (4) What Brings In Outside Dollars, (5) Housing and (6) Economic Engines.

The 49 Morris County citizens that participated in the development of StratPlan VII are listed at Tab A.

Tab A
StratPlan VII – Tab A
Participants
Christy AlexanderCouncil Grove
Scott AllenRural Council Grove
Star ArmstrongCouncil Grove
Ryan ArnoldCouncil Grove
Rose BaconRural Council Grove
Dave BakerCouncil Grove City Lake
Dr. Curt BrungardtCouncil Grove City Lake
Darrel BryantCouncil Grove
Rhonda BryantCouncil Grove
Louise CarlinCouncil Grove City Lake
Ellen DeLayCouncil Grove
Dan DoergeCouncil Grove
Cynthia EngleCouncil Grove - Mayor
Abe ForbeckCouncil Grove
George ForresterCouncil Grove City Lake
Robert ForresterCouncil Grove City Lake
Donna FreseCouncil Grove
David FritchenCouncil Grove City Lake and Manhattan
Ron HaugCouncil Grove
Vern HayCouncil Grove City Lake - County Commissioner
Julie HowerCouncil Grove
C. Kay HutchinsonDelavan
Andy HutterCouncil Grove City Lake
Joyce HutterCouncil Grove City Lake
Loy JamesCouncil Grove
Diana JostBurdick - County Commissioner
Kerry LongCouncil Grove
Danny MatthewsCouncil Grove - City Administrator
Kelly McDiffettRural Council Grove
Bill MillerRural Council Grove
Dick MontgomeryCouncil Grove City Lake
Tom MoxleyDunlap - State Representative
Dr. Virginia MoxleyDunlap and Manhattan
Terry PowellCouncil Grove
Bob ReeceCouncil Grove
Dale ReinCouncil Grove
F J RevereRural Council Grove - County Commissioner
Angela SchwerdtfegerCouncil Grove
Debi SchwerdtfegerCouncil Grove - City Council Member
TinaRae ScottRural Council Grove
Steve ShepardCouncil Grove - City Council Member
Lisa SwisherCouncil Grove
Caroline VonFeldtCouncil Grove
John VeyCouncil Grove
Bill WesselCouncil Grove
Hank WhiteCouncil Grove
John WhiteCouncil Grove
Laura WhiteCouncil Grove
Marty WhiteCouncil Grove



Tab B
The Setup – Tab B

As the group gathered for the first meeting the evening of Thursday, 13 November 2008, John White, Greater Morris County Development Corporation president welcomed the gathering and thanked them for their willingness to participate in the important task of developing a new strategic plan (StratPlan VII) – the seventh such document produced by the Greater Morris County Development Corporation (GMDC) on behalf of the county.

President White stated that many small towns just stay the same, stagnate then fail – but it is the intent and purpose of drafting strategic plans as a means to help local communities prosper and make progress through good and bad times.  Keeping communities viable takes cooperation of city, county and other government officials as well as community leaders and the involvement of many concerned citizens.

White went on to say that we need to do everything possible to keep our communities looking well, being energetic and thriving.  Community pride is very important to the success of all communities – large and small.  Agriculture and AgriTourism are great sources of economic wealth in Morris County.  Our communities have many strengths and it’s due, in part, to the positive attitudes existing in Morris County.

This is the seventh strategic plan we’ve drafted – so this new plan will have been 21 years in the making.  Dr. Don Wissman of Manhattan will help us through this process by facilitating the work sessions.  Don Wissman is an economist and is in the business of economic development.  Dr. Wissman facilitated the development of StratPlan VI three years ago and we’re delighted that he is with us again this year for the drafting of StratPlan VII.  He knows what he’s doing and he will guide us through the process of writing Strategic Plan Number Seven (StratPlan VII).

Dr. Wissman said he was a Michigan transplant and found a “new home” at Manhattan – and, over the years he has brought many guests to Council Grove to see and enjoy the many historic sites and to dine in the plethora of restaurants that abound in this community.  He spoke highly of the community’s efforts to preserve an important part of American history – as evidenced by the more than 24 nationally recognized historic sites in and around Council Grove.

Wissman said that our task on this first meeting would be to identify what we like about living in Morris County – What needs to be done to sustain or improve what we have and what will be our priorities.

At Tab C are the comments regarding “What we like about living in Morris County”.



Tab C
What We Like About Living in Morris County – TAB C

A lively discussion took place regarding this question – with several respondents noting the people, the rural area and attitudes, the overall friendliness of the residents – a somewhat common trait in the Plains States.

Visitors are surprised that many people in rural areas don’t lock their doors and that there are so many wide-open spaces.  At night one can see the stars, including the Milky Way – a sight that is unavailable to more than 80% of the world’s occupants.  People feel safe in this part of rural America and walk confidently around rural roads or along the Council Grove Riverwalk without fear of being attacked or injured.  We are the unspoken ambassadors of a lifestyle that’s been lost to the majority of Americans – or the rest of the world – including lots of unencumbered space that is the envy of the world.

Sustaining historical sites says much about the heritage and uniqueness of this area.  The Kaw Mission offering a treasure trove of artifacts from the Kaw/Kansa Native Americans that first settled this land and now their sustained effort to complete the national Indian Heritage Park at Allegawaho southeast of Council Grove.  People come from miles around to dine at the historic Hays House Restaurant – or one or more of the 15 restaurants available in Council Grove.  The “bed-and-breakfast” establishments, enjoying covered wagon rides through the Flint Hills, the “ranch experience” and the county’s three lakes are all destinations of choice for thousands of visitors each year.  We must also include the unique shops offering many once-in-a-lifetime shopping experiences for urban residents from (sometimes) states and countries miles away.

The Tallgrass Prairie – truly one of our assets – just 17 miles south of Council Grove also attracts thousands of visitors each year.  Morris County is a part of the ecosystem that makes up the national Tallgrass Prairie.  We are also at the northern end of the first national scenic byway in Kansas – the Flint Hills National Scenic Byway.

On the other hand, we are close enough to the more metropolitan areas of Kansas that we can enjoy college and university sports, arts, lectures and higher education for our young people.  We’re also situated in the very heart of the beautiful Kansas Flint Hills providing a lifestyle unavailable in almost any other locale.  The Symphony in the Flint Hills has become a gigantic success in this and surrounding counties.  Morris County also is one of only a handful of locations in Kansas where one can enjoy living in waterfront properties.  This is a huge attraction – for many people already living at Kahola and Council Grove City lakes – and can be an even greater draw with an intense effort at better infrastructure and more positive city/county cooperation.

Because of our near proximity to larger communities, we can serve as bedroom communities for citizens holding jobs out of the county – yet, we’re close enough that some businesses and industries find locating operations in our county to be distinct possibilities  When available, there has been smooth transitions for farms, ranches and local businesses from older to younger generations.  Our proximity to an increasingly larger Fort Riley – and the new National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility (NBAF) at Manhattan – places our county in an enviable position for potential increase in residential and business growth.
Don Wissman says that recent studies involving high school students find that if quality living and jobs could be available in their small communities that they would stay or return to their home areas following any advanced education they might accomplish.  For Morris County, having many retail, social and healthcare needs of most people today, it could be an ideal target community for youth attraction/retention.  Unlike many Kansas counties, Morris County has five local foundations – very helpful for long-term financial health of the county.  Morris County is a “county of volunteers” – many people willing to pitch in and help neighbors in need, contribute to church and community efforts and to help with many local, regional and national worthy causes.

Not to be overlooked is a growing “art colony” in the county with aspiring and noted artists from a large area finding our county is a welcome site for their work and the marketing of their finished projects.  Photographers of note are finding the Flint Hills and the historic settings in the county worthy of their efforts.  The White Memorial Camp hosts several artistic groups each year – and, internationally-famous Stan Herd has found Council Grove and the surrounding Flint Hills to his liking.

The three lakes attract boaters, individual water crafters, water skiers, and fisher folks from a large area – even from out of state.  Lake residency, as mentioned earlier, is a gigantic plus for the county.  The county also offers great hunting opportunities – from deer and wild turkeys to pheasant, quail, dove and other targets of opportunity.  Golfing at the 9-hole Council Grove Country Club is open to all – members and non-members.
Recreation doesn’t end with the outdoors, however, with the Council Grove Life Center offering indoor basketball, volleyball, handball, swimming and a large variety of aerobic systems.  The local ball diamonds in several communities offer youth recreational baseball and softball and numerous local, regional and state tournaments are played on the ball fields of Morris County.

The big 4th of July events – thousands came for the big 4th of July evening at the Council Grove Riverwalk – now disbanded due to safety requirements – but being conducted at White City by the same contractor that did the Riverwalk celebration.  While the railroads are gone from the Council Grove area, freight train activity at nearby Herington brings many jobs to the area.  The Herington Regional Airport, located wholly in Morris County, is of significant economic benefit to this area.  The Air Industrial Park at that facility hosts three of the largest industries in Morris County.  The sod strip airport at the Council Grove City Lake is also of economic benefit with casual and recreational pilots using the facility year-round.

The first Sunday of every month from April through October sees hundreds – even thousands – of motorcyclists in Morris County, many with Council Grove restaurants as their destinations of choice.  The 4-H Fairgrounds is also a popular destination – not only for the annual county fair, but for the several rodeos and other events conducted at that site each year – also bringing many people and their dollars to the county.

At Tab D are listed the Challenges Facing Morris County



Tab D
Challenges of Life in Morris County – Tab D

After considering the many reasons why people enjoy living and visiting in Morris County, Dr. Wissman shifted the thinking to look at the “challenges” associated with life in this mostly rural county.

A major factor is the cost of motor and heating fuel – affecting not just our citizens, but from around the country.  But – that has an impact on those traveling to our area for recreation and sightseeing.  There is no question that motor coach and group travel is down from the past few years, driven, in some cases, by the higher cost of fuel.  Heating one’s home and business is also increasing with higher oil, natural and propane gas costs.  Our local industries are also hit with the consequence of higher operating costs.  The overall economy is beginning to take a toll with local factories and retailers feeling the national pinch of increasing unemployment and decreasing orders for hard goods.  This leads to a decrease in disposable income – those discretionary dollars that fuel our local retail and tourist economies.  The two largest contributors to local sales tax dollars are the General Motors and Chrysler automobile dealers – both may be on the chopping block as those old-line, national companies struggle with survival.  (Note:  Just as this document was in its final stages, it was learned that General Motors had, indeed, shut down the local GM dealership)

The annual Wah-Shun-Gah Days, one of the premier festivals in Kansas, is beginning to see a decline in vendor interest and attendance – both driven by higher fuel prices and declining discretionary income.  We may need to change our marketing approach to tourists – whether that is to the traditional visitors or to what we have to offer them.  Some of our marketing efforts date back to the mid-1800s.  We may need to make some significant changes in our approach to get into the 21st century with our efforts.

Our marketing efforts also include real estate as local realtors play a significant role in marketing this county.  There is not a lot of identifiable “affordable, attractive housing” available in Morris County.  With more “affordable housing” we believe we could attract more military families and civilian workers from the ever-increasing growth at Fort Riley.  The NBAF at Manhattan will bring huge numbers of higher paying jobs and associated industries to this area.  We need to get ready – we need to find a way to create the housing that’s going to be needed within a few years.  And, yet – we don’t want to overbuild or “over sell” these areas at the cost of ravaging the ambience for which many have come to expect and enjoy in this Flint Hills county.

There is some concern that the majority of people participating in the StratPlan exercise are from the Council Grove area – representing some 3,000 folks, or about half of the county’s population.  Where are the others – and why aren’t they taking part?  We need to get all Morris Countians involved with planning for the future.  The StratPlan sponsor, GMDC, ran ads and news articles in all three “county newspapers” (the Council Grove Republican, Prairie Post and Herington Times) plus mailed invitations to the meetings to city and county elected personnel.  It is noteworthy that all three County Commissioners, the Mayor and City Administrator of Council Grove plus two City Council persons are participating in this effort.  How to get elected officials from the other communities to participate is still a mystery.

If we don’t find a way to capture the “retirement community” folks, we’re also missing a coming large market share as the “baby boomers” begin leaving the cities for their “place in the sun”.  One of our challenges is developing and staffing the industries that cater to the retired population.  How do we do that?  The manufacturing industry is also changing – even in Council Grove it is a real challenge to hire qualified, capable and willing young workers.  Youth retention/attraction is a significant concern for the future well-being of Morris County.

We believe we live in a great community – and we do – but, think about our communities from the standpoint of visitors or tourists just traveling through – what is there to do after 5 o’clock in the evening?  We truly “roll up our streets” at 5 o’clock and go to our nice homes or eat out at one of our 14 or 15 restaurants.  To the traveler, they are looking for something to do – and there is nothing after they have dinner.  Our young folks have been telling us this for several years. They have learned that finding something to do means traveling to Emporia, Manhattan, or beyond.  Some will use the Council Grove Life Center or, in the warm months, the municipal swimming pool or the Council Grove Country Club golf course, but that’s a small percentage – and visitors don’t know they can use some of those facilities.  Bowling is available in Herington – but, think about it – what is there to do in Council Grove – or White City – or any of the other small communities in the county after 5 o’clock in the afternoon?  If one’s not a “bar hopper” and they’re staying in a local motel or bed and breakfast, all they have for “something to do” is watch TV re-runs.  That aspect alone really “kills” our efforts to attract tourists into this area – or to even retain our younger citizens for very long.

As for industrial and economic development, the loss of the railroads and the lack of nearby four-lane highways limit us when it comes to attracting outside companies to look at Morris County.  We’ve also had our share of companies that will look at this area, ask for tax abatements, low-interest loans or direct grants if they’ll locate here – then we offer them what they want and they simply take that information to the economic developers in Emporia, Manhattan, Junction City and Topeka, saying “. . . look what Morris County will do for us” and the larger communities, with a much larger tax base can match our offerings and more – so the companies simply use us for leverage to get what they want from larger communities.

Responding to the question of what are the results of using a local sales tax in Manhattan – Dr. Wissman said that the “Little Apple” gets 15 – 20% return on their tax dollars which amount to a half-million dollars a year.  Manhattan, overall, invests about $70,000 for each new job created – that’s in direct payments to startup or relocating companies, infrastructure development, workforce development and other investments to support new plant sites.  Large funds have been funneled into the Manhattan Airport which serves many local industries, plus is a major draw for large population-based industries coming into the area – such as Fort Riley and the National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility (NBAF) into Manhattan.  All of this goes into the equation of “how much does the community invest in new jobs?”

In rural America – especially in Morris County and Council Grove, our quality of life is based on keeping property and other taxes as low as possible in order to keep the quality of life high – so how do we fund the requests or needs of startup or relocating companies?  How does an employer pay what workers believe to be “fair wages and benefits” when the outcome at the bottom line doesn’t support worker expectations?  Several of our local plants continue to advertise for workers, but few are responding to those needs because of the real, or perceived, belief that they can make more money in Manhattan, Emporia, Topeka, Junction City, Salina or Wichita.  The costs of health insurance continue to rise, creating additional problems for our local industries.  While a recent school bond issue has been passed in Council Grove, unless we get those “child-bearing age” young families into our communities, that bond issue may go for naught in a few years.  The lack of “upward mobility” in almost every industry and business within the county causes workers to look for jobs in other communities, other industries.

Local industries that, just a few years ago, would advertise for help and have several people show up for each available job - today, they can’t get even one person to apply.  Even our local Dairy Queen is offering starting pay at $8 an hour plus paying 100% of Blue Cross/BlueShield and matching 3% of their IRAs – and getting mostly high school-age applicants.

Another significant challenge for Morris County communities is the lack of retail stores to support the needs of local citizens.  Where, for example, does one buy a pair of shoes in Morris County?  There is no men’s clothing facility and the county is now down to one lady’s dress shop.  This causes a huge out-migration of our local populace driving 40 – 100 miles just to shop for family clothing.  As in most families, when they have to make that trip for clothing, they surmise that they need to purchase other items to justify the travel cost involved – so other local retailers lose out as well.

To the question of “What is affordable housing?” the responses included: something that is available at what a person can afford when making a base wage – either to rent or purchase.  Local realtors believe that homes priced in the $40,000 to $60,000 range could fulfill the needs of “affordable housing”; however, the homes for sale in Council Grove are in the $80,000 to $120,000 range.  The concept of the elderly moving into assisted living or senior apartments to free-up those 40k to 60k homes is not happening in any significant numbers.  Maybe what we need is lower-cost homes, apartments or townhouses for retiree housing in order to open up those “starter homes” at the bottom of the housing cycle.

With a plethora of the “positives” about Morris County and a plateful of “challenges”, Dr. Wissman called a one-week recess for this strategic planning effort stating that during our next session we will try to build on what we have and try to find solutions to the many challenges.

In summary, the “Positives” in Morris County are:

•Its People
•Friendly Atmosphere
•Rural Ambience and Open Spaces
•Small Town America Ambience
•Proximity to Larger Cities
•Economic Opportunity
•Beauty of the Flint Hills
•Smooth Transition of Farms, Ranches and Businesses to Next Generation
•Willingness to Work for What we Want
•Uniqueness of the Hays House Restaurant and Terwilliger Trail Days Café
•Large Historical Area
•Council Grove Riverwalk
•Federal Reservoir – Council Grove City Lake – Lake Kahola
•Willing Volunteers
•Community Financial Foundations
•White Memorial Camp
•Developing Art Colony
•First of the Month Motorcycle Visitors
•Flint Hills National Scenic Byway
•Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve
•Morris County Fairgrounds and Rodeo Grounds
•Several Festivals Throughout County
•Great Hunting and Fishing
•Ranching Legacy and Ecosystem
•Quality and Safe Schools
•Butler Community College
•Good Services
•Outstanding Health Care – the Hospital, Assisted Living and Long-Term Care
•Quality Child Care
•4th of July Fireworks and Celebrations at White City, Wilsey (3rd of July) and Council Grove Lake
•Many and Varied Recreational Facilities
•Agriculture and Agritourism
•Herington Regional Airport – and Council Grove Airfield
•Council Grove Life Center

Summations of the “Challenges” include:

•Decreasing Disposable Income
•The Need to Counter “Divisions” and Personal Differences within the County
•Selective Economic Development
•Inability to Compete with Larger Surrounding Cities for Industries
•Lack of Infrastructure – 4-Lane Highways, Railroads, Utilities
•Lack of Retail Stores
•Lack of Planned Housing
•Lack of Affordable Family Housing
•Limited Rental Units
•Lack of Starter Homes
•Lack of Affordable Retiree Housing 
•Lack of Upward Mobility in Nearly All Industries and Businesses
•Lack of Rural Water Systems/Districts – Only One in the County

At Tab E are suggestions for Working Through the Challenges facing Morris County



Tab E
Working Our Way Through the Challenges – Tab E

At the beginning of the Second Session, John White, GMDC President, again thanked all for their continued participation and noted that in that day’s issue of the Topeka Capital-Journal there was a front-page article about Topekans working through their strategic plan and finding it interesting that the Capital City is hard at work the same as we and for the same reason, developing a “road map” for the near future of our communities.  He then turned the meeting over to Dr. Don Wissman who said his analysis of the first week’s work is that of all the issues laid on the table, most of us believe strongly that “people” – the residents of this county – is the most important factor in “What’s Right About Morris County”.

Referring back to the “Challenges” Wissman asked if there are any other factors that should be discussed.

Respondents noted that while Morris County maintains well its many miles of county roads, more hard-surface, all-weather roads would benefit its citizens, tourism and economic development.  The “hot button issue”, however, is the lack of, or the perception of limited city/county cooperation asserting that County Commissioners and City Councils throughout the county don’t always play from the “same sheet of music”.  Both Vern Hay, and Diana Jost – newly-elected County Commissioners pledged to make every effort to open communications with the county’s communities.

It was noted that a big challenge is getting the entire county – officials and citizens – to “buy in” to the Strategic Plan so that it becomes a viable document moving the entire county forward.  With that, Dr. Wissman suggested that we should establish some broad “pillars” with specific headings/areas then limit the number of items under each heading and establish priorities.  What we need to do is develop a Positive Attitude about the county and work from a positive, rather than a negative position.  Thus, the first Pillar becomes:

POSITIVE ATTITUDE

•City/County Governments working together for the greater good
•City and County Governments sharing equipment and labor
•Local Governments sharing ideas and wealth
•Work from Bottom-up and Top-Down
•Nearly impossible to reduce County Taxes – but, with Positive Leadership can go forward with what we have
•Reducing Taxes or saving dollars may not be, in itself, always to best way to do something
•Project “Positive Attitude” at all times
•Hold Wide-Interest Public Meetings in various Communities through County

At this point an exchange between a County Commissioner and a Council Grove elected official may have demonstrated some of the distrust and miscommunications the citizenry sees.  The Council Grove official, using the Washington Street reconstruction project as an example, said that that street handles all of the county’s hospital business, yet when Council Grove sought financial support from Morris County, they didn’t get it – with a response by the Commissioner saying that had the County known of the project in advance so that it could have been budgeted, the Commissioners may well have favored participating in the Washington Street reconstruction.
Don Wissman said that some recent studies reveal that college graduates sometimes express dismay about returning home because they don’t understand, nor approve of the constant bickering among city and county elected representatives.  That’s one reason why a special appeal was made to the under-40 crowd to participate in this strategic planning exercise.

It was commented that a few strategic plans ago, concern was raised about having better facilities to attract retirees to the county and that helped in the development of the Council Grove Life Center and the Council Grove Assisted Living facility.

At that time, Don Wissman read a letter from a young, single mother interested in relocating to Council Grove listing 19 points on her “wish list” for her new community, including does this community have . . .

1.a farmer’s market?
2.a family clinic?
3.a family dentist?
4.a hospital – or how far does one travel to the nearest one?
5.a children’s dance studio?
6.a soccer league and, if so, at what age can a child begin?
7.a veterinary clinic?
8.a pet-friendly attitude?
9.a dog park?
10.a movie theater?
11.a library?
12.a gas station?
13.public transportation – and, if not, how far is the nearest major airport and/or passenger train station?
14.a bowling alley?
15.a community college?
16.apartment houses – and if so, are they listed on a website?
17.a Head Start program?
18.what retail stores are in your community?
19.what is offered for recreation in the community?

Of the 19 questions, all but three or four could be answered in the affirmative regarding Council Grove and Morris County.

It was noted that when the Council Grove Lakes Committee did its strategic planning, one of the questions asked of “weekend cabin owners” was how many would be interested in becoming fulltime residents of the Council Grove City Lake.  Sixty respondents answered that they would consider moving to the lake fulltime if they could be assured by the City of Council Grove of a quality, long-term lease.  So, here we have a young mother plus some 60 others that find Council Grove attractive for their life styles but they each have concerns that must be addressed to attract such dwellers.

Following some discussion, it was determined that the next Pillar should be the County’s . . .

ECONOMIC ENGINES

•Manufacturing
•Agriculture
•Construction
•Council Grove City Lake, Lake Kahola and waterfront residency
•Council Grove Federal Reservoir – and myriad water sports & activities
•Tourism
•Municipal Infrastructure
•Diverse Retail Access
•Quality School Systems
•Retirement Community
•Quality, Accessible Healthcare
•Workforce Development

After more discussion, participants voted to make the next Pillar . . .

WHAT BRINGS IN OUTSIDE DOLLARS

•Production Agriculture and Ranching – still the largest, single revenue producer in the County
•Viable Retail Community – many shoppers enjoy the “small town” ambience of the county’s local shops
•Local Car Dealerships – keep sales tax numbers high in Morris County (although the recent loss of the General Motors dealership due to GM restructuring will have an unknown negative impact on the county)
•Council Grove Federal Reservoir – attracts thousands of campers and water sports enthusiasts annually
•Council Grove City Lake
-  Permanent and “weekend” residents at the City Lake bring additional discretionary dollars into the community
-  Every change in ownership at the City Lake recycles “new dollars” into the community through home construction/reconstruction, upgrades, new furniture and fixtures
-  Several residents at the City Lake operate successful businesses that bring “new” dollars into Council Grove and Morris County
•Good School Systems
•Quality of Life - Great Place to Raise Children
•Beautifying Downtown Retail and “People” Areas of the communities.  Council Grove has experienced recent, significant “downtown beautification” (with a special thanks to Diane Bolton and Cheerie Baker for their work).  White City’s efforts in developing and enhancing  the downtown Katy Park is another example

Another Pillar should be . . .

MARKETING

•Develop Quality Community Website
•Bond with K-State – take advantage of its Academics and Athletics popularity
•Better use of Council Grove’s 1% Sales Tax for Marketing
•“Branding” and Advertising the County
•Develop – and use – positive, quality Marketing Strategy
•Promote Waterfront Residency – Council Grove City Lake and Lake Kahola, two of only a handful of Kansas lakes where one can enjoy waterfront residency (City and County elected officials need an understanding of this factor for the huge economic value it is to the city and county)

Don Wissman was asked about Manhattan’s marketing efforts and the payoff – with Wissman commenting that he didn’t have any “numbers” to share but their constant campaign is apparently working as they do not have sufficient housing for the numbers of people wanting to take up residency in that community.

A comment was made, referring back to an earlier issue that in Morris County there is nothing for individuals or families to do after 5 o’clock in the evening – thereby causing local citizens to drive to other, larger communities to eat, shop and recreate.  It was noted, however, that some Morris County communities set up weekly movies, even showing films on the sides of large buildings or a nearby barn in order to keep folks at home.  Another suggested that (perhaps) one of the key issues here is motor fuel pricing inequity in the county – where seemingly cheaper fuel can be purchased in surrounding communities.

Another comment is that many county residents are employed out of the county so they purchase their auto fuel where it’s cheaper and, as a convenience, purchase groceries and other needed items out of the county also.  Also, there appears to be a “knowledge/ loyalty gap” wherein local farm service organizations, 4-H clubs, military service organizations, Boy and Girl Scouts, churches and our schools that “work the streets” in every Morris County community raising money for their projects or annual dinners, then taking that money out of the county to purchase goods and services rather than investing it back in the community by buying locally – from the firms that contributed the money.

So – the next Pillar became . . .

HOW TO KEEP DOLLARS LOCALLY

•Children’s Activities (for young families)
•Evening entertainment – For all Ages
•Preschool Play Facilities
•Fill-in Retail Shopping Gaps
•Understanding the “pass-down economics” of purchasing locally
•Addressing a “reasonable long-term lease” for property owners at Council Grove City Lake
•Infrastructure Improvements at the City Lake and throughout the County
•Quality Health Care – Hospital/Assisted Living/Long-Term Care Facility

A question was raised about the 2006 Federal/State study that concluded that the Council Grove Reservoir would only support five visitors’ rental units.  That study, however, has been challenged locally as some believe that constructing rental units at the Federal Reservoir would have a positive impact on the community.

Another important pillar is . . .

Housing

•“Starter Residence” for young, married or unmarried
•Retirement Community
•Affordable
•A Community Housing-Needs Assessment might be helpful
•Insufficient Rental Units in county to attract wide spectrum of military, military civilian employees, bedroom communities for workers in surrounding cities
•Zoning (to “protect” our perceived “way of life”)

One comment was that zoning would prevent an “adult” store from cropping up in a residential or other “less-than-appropriate” area of the community.

Another suggestion was to form coalitions with Manhattan, Kansas State, Fort Riley and Riley and Geary Counties to play-off their needs and successes.

A question was raised about getting contractors to build “affordable housing” with the answer being that investors and developers won’t put up housing unless they can positively identify potential occupants of such housing.  As a first step, perhaps we should enlist the aid of K-State, Washburn University, Emporia State and KU to initiate a feasibility study regarding housing in Morris County.

It was noted that a couple of years ago a contractor was willing to build “affordable housing” in Council Grove, but he had to build a minimum of 25 homes in one area in order to get “construction efficiency” and couldn’t find such an area in or around Council Grove.

When asked to vote on the priorities for accomplishment, six issues all received “number one” ratings:

Positive Attitude – City/County Cooperation
Develop County Marketing Plan
How to Keep Local Dollars Locally
What Brings In Outside Dollars
Housing
Economic Engines

While this lively discussion could have continued much longer, the hour was late and  Dr. Wissman suggested that it was time to identify volunteers to take “ownership” of each issue.  Volunteering (or being volunteered) for each “pillar” were . . .

•Positive Attitude – City/County Cooperation
Vern Hay, Cynthia Engle, Danny Matthews, Ron Haug
•Marketing Plan
Scott Allen, Rose Bacon, TinaRae Scott
•Keeping Local Dollars Locally
Dave Baker, Dale Rein, Star Armstrong, Laura White (Main Street –
           Cheerie Baker)
•What Brings in Outside Dollars
Robert Forrester, Dave Fritchen, Joyce Hutter
•Housing
Bill Wessel, Scott Allen
•Economic Engines
Abe Forbeck, Ryan Arnold

At Tab F is a look at Where Do We Go From Here



Tab F

StratPlan VII – Where Do We Go from Here – TAB F

Meeting for the final time as a Committee of the Whole on Thursday evening, 15 January 2009, the meeting was called to order at 7 o’clock by Greater Morris County Development Corporation (GMDC) president John White, who again thanked all for participating and for their many efforts in bringing this project to fruition. White, addressing the gathering said, “Having you all here shows your commitment to our county – and I truly appreciate the work you have done, and will continue to do as we finalize this strategic plan number seven.”

Don Wissman said that he also was pleased with the work being done and said the final chapters of this exercise will be to review what we had accomplished, define what needs doing and come up with some benchmarks.  The Committee heard reports from those committed to each of the “six pillars” as determined during the first two meetings.

Economic Engines (Abe Forbeck and Ryan Arnold – with modifications by the StratPlan publisher)

Ryan Arnold said he was fairly new to the community, having relocated from McPherson to work at Rex Materials Group of Kansas.  This also benefits his wife who is a student at Kansas State University.  Ryan said that he and Abe Forbeck had gone through several fits and starts regarding this pillar working from both a tactical and strategic standpoint.  Of the various “economic engines” in the county, there seems to be nothing to tie them together as a homogeneous unit.  There needs to be a common vision to connect all these engines together – remembering that a “rising tide raises all ships” – and some sort of cooperative effort among the various “economic engines” might culminate in a sum greater than the total of the elements.

If “retirement” is one of the “engines” then there needs to be some sort of “tying-in” with the manufacturing, service industries and production agriculture elements of the county so that there can be an orderly transition from work to retirement by the county’s citizens.  As for the “tourism engine” the county is gaining a good grasp on this element, but more needs doing in massaging this area as a “preferred” destination of choice and it needs to be marketed in that manner.  Tourism can bring additional jobs and families to the area – and the tourism monies certainly represent one factor of “bringing outside dollars” into the area.  Tourism translates into many positive factors including more dollars for local retailers, more jobs for those seeking employment, more exposure to those considering a retirement community, more public perception of this area as a great place to visit and/or to live.  More jobs means better workforce development, more citizens to help spread the tax base, more students for the county’s school systems and more construction for new homes and additional manufacturing and production facilities.  Since these engines can’t function totally independently from each other, there needs to be a coalescence of sorts that develops the links between industry, agriculture, marketing, service and the tourism “engines”.  While there’s not a lot of competition between the various “engines” there is little evidence that they are working together – a factor that may need reviewing.

In Council Grove there is continuing effort to expand the “main street” retailing and servicing areas – by extending the “streetscapes” further east and west, by opening new retail and servicing entities and in applying the same beautification efforts in both directions throughout the city’s retail corridor.  This is an important “engine” that can improve over time.  Cleaning up and upgrading Main Street in Council Grove means more “local” and “outside” dollars for merchants’ coffers – which then translates into more tax dollars for the city and the county.

Through analysis and discussion of the economic engines of Morris County, two fundamental problems common among all engines have been identified.  The first relates to identification and management of the health of the economic engines and the second relates to an underlying common goal that links all of the engines together.  Following is a suggested strategy and tactic to overcome each problem.

Problem: The health (well-being) of the economic engines is difficult to identify and manage.  These difficulties often result in a delayed response of aid.

Strategy: The health of the economic engines could be better managed through timely identification of problems facing the engines as well as a streamlined communication link to interested parties.  Despite the large participation in civic groups of Morris County today, there is not an organization that is focused on the problems facing the economic engines and the entities that constitute them.  In addition, there is not a communication link between the separate entities making up the economic engines and interested parties (example: entities within other economic engines such as GMDC, local foundations, etc.).
 
Tactic: Form an organization(s) to discuss “problems of the day” of economic engines in Morris County.  The mission of the organization(s) will be to identify specific problems facing engines/entities and strategize ways to overcome them.  The organization(s) would function through small group, open forum meetings.

Problem:  No single engine or entity within an engine can grow or survive without the growth or survival of multiple other engines.  However, within the economic engines of Morris County today there lacks a common goal that links them together so they can grow.

Strategy:  Allow each engine/entity to identify how they can both contribute and succeed through the pursuit of a developed common goal.  The resources of the economic engines are limited.  Focusing on a common goal will result in maximized utilization of the resources and substantially greater impact of the efforts that are made.

Tactic:  Develop a goal for Morris County.  Communicate and educate to all government, businesses, organizations and residents on the goal and how they link to it. 

The many entities that make up the economic engines of Morris County are vibrant and hard working and have a very strong, positive history.  Increasing the communication among these engines as well as focusing their efforts on a common goal will make a strong, positive mark on their future as well.   

Marketing Plan (Scott Allen, Rose Bacon, TinaRae Scott)
Keeping Local Dollars Locally (Dave Baker, Dale Rein, Star Armstrong, Laura White (Main Street – Cheerie Baker) – These two Pillars were merged into one as the participants believed the two played off each other.  (Some issues have been modified by the publisher)

In general, the Marketing Plan is considered to be a function of the Council Grove/Morris County Chamber of Commerce and Tourism and it continues its efforts to access and use additional dollars for these purposes. Marketing and Keeping Local Dollars Locally have mutually common goals – to retain local dollars and to enhance efforts to bring additional (outside) dollars to the county.

It would be helpful if each community and each government agency would provide the Chamber/Tourism with their one, three and five-year plans so that information can be coalesced into an accurate and informative message to both local citizens and those outsiders interested in Morris County in one way or another.  The new strategic plan needs publicizing throughout the county.  Marketing Morris County to Morris Countians is probably the single, most important effort that should be made.  Without citizen understanding and support – most any marketing effort will fail.  It’s important to also market to local, state and federal elected officials as well as nurturing understanding among political leaders who can lead to positive actions in the future.  Our marketing effort must be continuous and long term if it’s to accomplish positive results.

As a key part of the marketing plan, it’s important that we develop and tell the same story to all recipients regardless of what media is used.  Marketing efforts should be generally broad and have a “target” audience in mind.  The marketing efforts need to mesh and have quality accountability.  “Shot-gunning” to the world without a definite target, destination and time frame will be dollars wasted. 

It was determined that there needs to be marketing to three distinct groups:

1.       Morris County Residents
           2.       People outside of Morris County
           3.       Politicians and political groups
Contingency plans should be available to the general public from all Council Grove “Promotion Sales Tax” recipients - this includes but is not limited to: the School Districts, City of Council Grove, the County, the Chamber of Commerce and Tourism, etc. 

Encourage others to create and assist in marketing all plans.  There should be an inventory of our assets, be that people, resources, real estate, businesses, etc., in Morris County and/or those that are associated with Morris County that is available to the general population.

Cross-communication needs to be encouraged between entities to share information and resources.  Reference material is needed in order to publish periodicals and be placed on the website(s) for all to see.  Requirements need to be tracked by a professional (be it paid, volunteer, a university, etc.) and results need to be made public from all Council Grove “Promotions Sales Tax” recipients.  Marketing projects may include:  time-period tag-lines, contests, guerilla marketing, websites, surveys and interviews.

Housing (Bill Wessel, Scott Allen – as modified by the publisher)

There is not good data readily available on available housing, apartments and rental units so the county works in a vacuum when trying to come up with information regarding housing.  What information is available is at the County Assessor’s office and that is only in paper form – not electronically available.  It will take significant effort, but we need to develop some sort of useable inventory of what we have before we can determine what we need.
Some believe that another challenge is that Morris County is not zoned nor is there a land-use plan in writing.  The divisive lines regarding zoning may have been formed several years ago when a strong disagreement erupted between those desiring to open the county for wind energy as an economic development entity while others fought to keep the county “as is” for its historic, ranching and flint hills ambience.  Zoning can be a positive force and should be considered.  Our county is one of the few in Kansas without zoning or a land-use plan.  If we don’t know where we are in this arena, then we don’t know where to go or when we get there without appropriate planning documents.

One of several arguments for county zoning is the continuing build-up at Fort Riley and the incoming National Bio Agro-Defense Facility (NBAF) to Manhattan.  These entities will bring hundreds of new, (many high-paying), jobs to the area and a need for affiliated industries that might as well be built in surrounding areas as on land in Riley and Geary Counties.  Morris County stands to gain much from these major economic developments – and we should plan now to attract new businesses and new residents.  Morris County can be a bedroom community, a retirement community, a tourist community and a small-industry community all at the same time.  None of these should be mutually-exclusive.

In addition to housing, the county’s schools also need to keep up and grow with or ahead of in-migration of soldiers, federal civilian employees, scientists and worker bees as the larger communities around us move into accelerated development.  “Interdependence” and “mutually-supportive” seem to be words that fit the mode to which this county can aspire. 

Positive Attitude - City/County Cooperation (Vern Hay, Cynthia Engle, Danny Matthews, Ron Haug – as modified by the publisher)

There is a long history of a lack of community/county cooperation and the players in this effort are determined to reduce the friction and see if we can cooperatively grow this county into an entity that will be the envy of the other 104 counties.

The County Commissioners are exploring the possibility of holding their weekly meetings at different communities in the county.  This was done a few years ago and it may be time to get back to “taking government to the people”.  The Council Grove/ Morris County Chamber of Commerce and Tourism has had as its goal seamless transparency throughout the county and has demonstrated many times its support of community activities in all cities of the county.  Members of this “Pillar” are developing “treaties” with communities along the northern tier of Morris County with the hopes of getting more people in that area involved with all-county concepts.  It is regrettable that with all the publicity before and during these StratPlan meetings and with written invitations to all of the elected officials at the community and county level that we have not seen more out-county participation.  Of the 49 StratPlan VII participants, all but two or three are from the immediate Council Grove area.

There is demonstrated better cooperation within the Council Grove/City Lake residents as evidenced by the number of Lake property owners participating with this group and recent meetings between the City of Council Grove and the Lake Association.  Where, in the past there has been an atmosphere of animosity, today there is a much better sense of cooperation between the City and the Lake residents.  There is evidence, via the Chamber/Tourism, of better workings with Alta Vista – although in Wabaunsee County, it is part of the USD 417 School System in Morris County.  The recent passage of the USD 417 bond issue reflects a more positive attitude among the communities of the district.  It is also notable that all three county commissioners, or commissioners-elect and the mayor and three Council Grove City Council and/or council members-elect are members of this planning session.  We also have our State Representative serving on this group.  This is better than any can remember during past strategic planning efforts.  This StratPlan might be one vehicle in developing better urban/rural, county/community cooperation.

When the strategic plan is complete, it should be a focal point on the Chamber/Tourism website, the Morris County website and the Greater Morris County Development Corporation (GMDC) Website to get as great a distribution as possible.  Copies should be placed in every library in the county and – where possible, published in the county’s two newspapers.  When the populace becomes familiar with and “buys into” the plan more cooperation will become the norm rather than the exception.

StratPlan VII needs to be a living document – used by all entities as a “road map” for accomplishing the issues noted.  It would be ideal if this group will come together every three to six months or so to review accomplishments, then add new or enhanced projects to undertake. 

What Brings in Outside Dollars (Robert Forrester, Dave Fritchen, and Joyce Hutter as modified by the publisher)

This is a multi-faceted issue as nearly everything local businesses do has the potential of bringing in outside dollars.  Certainly the community festivals at Burdick, Wilsey, White City, Dwight and Alta Vista provide vehicles for bringing in outside dollars to the county.  Local retail and service businesses contribute to bringing in outside dollars and the large tourism industry that flourishes in the Council Grove area certainly contributes to the “outside dollars” that are invested in Morris County.

Of the three individuals volunteering to work this issue, two are fulltime residents of the Council Grove City Lake and one, a resident of Manhattan, owns and spends much time at his home on the City Lake.  Of the 354 home sites at the City Lake, there are currently 60 fulltime residents with more predicted to develop if certain key issues can be worked out between the lake residents and the City of Council Grove.  The Council Grove City Lake is one of only a handful in Kansas offering waterfront residency – a factor very attractive to certain income groups within easy access to this pristine property. Lake Kahola, in the southeastern part of the county, also offers waterfront residency, making Morris County a destination target for those whose income and desires would place them in this county.

With these factors in mind the following is considered as a major key to attracting “outside dollars” to this county.

Proposed Plan for Attracting “Outside Dollars”

1.Grow from 60 to 300 full time City Lake residences by 2014 to:
•Broaden tax base and increase tax revenue
•Increase purchasing in city and county businesses
•Enhance pool of local talent (volunteer and quality workforce)
•Increase in “Out-of-town” visitors/guests of full-time residents

PROJECTED IMPACT
•Enables businesses to improve, expand and increase
•Enables city and county services to improve and increase
•Enables schools and health facilities to improve and grow

2.Cooperate in Development and Implementation of “long-term lease” for City Lake Dwellers as early as possible
•Builds “Foundation for the Future” by stabilizing real property investment and encourages more conversions to full time residents
•Encourages more full time home purchases by enhancing mortgage lending options
•Stabilizes lease and taxes enabling life planning/spending and expense projections
•Enables capturing current and future influx of retirement purchasers
•Enables capturing influx of Ft. Riley and NBAF purchasers
•Provides financial stability for homeowners to make more and larger sustained investments in property and the city
•Promotes City Lake as viable option from which to locate and operate out-of-home businesses that would bring more revenue into Council Grove and Morris County

PROJECTED IMPACT
•Increase in local tax revenue
•Enhance local business activity (goods, services, etc.)
•Promotes “full-time” resident option
•Better and more permanent buildings
•Encourages visitors/guests that leave more dollars in the county and depart with a positive experience, yielding additional quality marketing of area

3.Consider Establishing Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) for Council Grove City Lake Park for CIP projects in the near future
•Primary funding through Long-Term Lease structure, but dedicated to CIP at City Lake
•Provides “seed money” for grants and loans for sustainable development around water supply
•Provide needed infrastructure (sewer/water/paved streets/roads) for quality of life

PROJECTED IMPACT
•Promotes sustained investment in property
•Assures compliance with current and future Kansas Department of Health & Environment (KDHE) and EPA requirements

4.Consider Providing Council Grove Lake Association (CGLA) opportunity to share a role in Governance of Council Grove Lake Park
•Operates in an advisory capacity to Mayor and City Council
•Assists with formulation of policies that impact recreation, public safety, fisheries management, aquatic nuisance species (ANS) prevention and other issues impacting the city and lake community.

PROJECTED IMPACT
•Creates “sense of community”  and promotes “teamwork” and community involvement through common purpose
•Inspires accountability as “partner in success” for funding, safety, environment, etc.
•Facilitates establishment of Improvement District to secure targeted grants and loans for CIP
•Helps secure lake from ANS and preserve value to community “Jewel of the Flint Hills”
•Help capitalize on Twin Lakes recreational events and opportunities
     5.   Good School Systems Brings In Outside Dollars by:

A. Including School Items in Community Marketing Efforts
•Summarize Achievements and Activities of Area Schools
•Showcase School Facilities, Expansions, and New Schools
•Showcase Accomplishments of Local Educators

            B. Create “Buzz” About Upcoming School Events
•Schedules and Calendars Posted on Community Bulletin Boards
•Build Interest in School Activities by Inviting Adult Groups to Participate
•Encourage Participation in School Art Fairs, Athletic Events, Theater
  
C.  Increase Student Community Involvement
•Generate Student “Reward” for Involvement in Community Activities
•Create City and County Student Contests, Spelling Bees, Art Shows, etc.
•Create Community Theater and Solicit Student Participation
•Encourage Student Assistance with Parades, Fairs, Pride, Chamber of Commerce/Tourism and Historical Society Activities
•Present Student Recognitions at Community Gatherings and Events

       6.   Great Place to Raise Children Brings In Outside Dollars

  Create Activities for Children that reduces Parental Burdens
•Create Adult and Senior Sponsorship of Programs such as boating, sailing,
     nature studies, summer reading, movie making, theater, equestrian, etc.
•Seek-out Entertainment Venues and Groups to Perform in Morris County including university, military, and other organizations
•Encourage Local Entertainment Start-ups such as skating, and locally-produced movies-on-the-wall
•Encourage Local Band Concerts, Ice Cream Socials and Better Participation in existing Fairs, Parades and Events

      7.   Beautifying Downtown Areas in All Communities Brings in Outside Dollars

  Volunteers’ Magic Continues
•PRIDE Committee Volunteers continue expanding placement and maintenance of flowers, plants and decorations in Downtown Council Grove
•Business and Professional Committee of the Chamber/Tourism continues organizing, sponsoring and funding unique events and decorations
•Billy and Jane Swofford landscape and maintain the City Lake entrances,
                  mowing and maintaining the grounds and trees of Lake Road at City Lake
•Encourage development of a City Plan to address ongoing maintenance of 
                      downtown public places
•Consider a Council Grove line item budget(s) supporting the work of such
                  committees and assuring continued downtown maintenance
•Encourage and support continuing development of the historic appearance of Council Grove
•Consider developing plans to add permanent plants and trees on Council Grove’s Main Street and irrigation systems to maintain them

        8.  Improved Historic Venues Bring in Outside Dollars
   
Capitalize on Historic Opportunities 
•Support improvements and expansions of all historic venues and Historic District concept   
•Increase visitor satisfaction, learning and lasting memories of each venue
•Create engineering, architecture, art, history, etc., possibilities to improve
     efforts by university, college and high school class-work participation
•Plan and advertise to Kansas schools a one-day "historic visitation plan"
                 including lunch at the new high school cafeteria, with high school seniors
                        serving as tour guides
•Change the name of Council Grove’s “Main Street” to “Santa Fe Trail”

9.Motorcycle and Car tours, Campers and Sportsmen Bring In Outside
     Dollars
   
    Capitalize on Motor Coach Tours, Campers and Sportsmen
•Create a “welcome” logo for merchants to display and incorporate on
     T-Shirts and other “tourist” products 
•Encourage retailers to provide “next-visit” discounts
•Develop a tour map that includes all of Morris County, the lakes, historic
                    venues, restaurants, rest rooms, hotels, fuel stations, etc.
•Meet with tour groups to promote our area and to learn what they would like to have available when visiting our area
•Plan community events that coincide with visiting tour groups

          10.  Improve Community Restaurants and Bars to Bring In Outside Dollars

      Leverage College Class-Work to Ideate Improvements
•Enlist college "restaurant management" and "architecture" class-work to critique operations and provide no-cost confidential improvement recommendations to owners willing to participate

11.Consider Developing “Morris County Certified” Agri Products Marketing ala “Certified Angus Beef” or “Florida Orange Juice”

•Certified Morris County Beef or Pork
•Certified Morris County Soy Beans, Corn or Wheat
•Certified Morris County Jams, Jellies, Wine or other locally produced products

At Tab G, find the Conclusions for StratPlan VII


Tab G

StratPlan VII – Conclusions – Tab G

With much effort on the part of all participants and an exhibited desire to take what we have in Morris County and enhance it to the benefit of its citizens, its industry and businesses, the assembly agreed to pursue future meetings on a regular basis to evaluate what has been accomplished, what needs tweaking, what needs enhancing or eliminating in order to (1) make this document worth our effort and (2) to make Morris County a “top tier” county in the State of Kansas.

Dr. Wissman says that he believes we’ve come a long way in producing this document, but we need to make it a “living document” and not one that dies a quiet death on the shelf somewhere.  It is important that StratPlan VII be made available to a broad section of the county’s populace in order to get their input/participation and a “buy-in” of the assessments and projects to be completed as part of this plan.  Over time, there needs to be developed an atmosphere of “you’re welcome here” - whether that be for an individual, a family or a new or existing business.  The historic nature of the county can be both an attraction and distraction for economic development.  It will be up to the county’s leaders – elected and volunteer – to step up and create the motivation for doing it better, no matter what.

GMDC president, John White, said he is encouraged by the processes he witnessed in drafting this document and believes that each of us need a big “thank you” for the work being done while each has an obligation to be a proponent for and to get the message before each citizen and to “make it happen”.

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Wednesday, February 22, 2012