After much reading about the roads, and this and that, that has gone on lately, can I ask you this? What do you think is good about Elk County? I wouldn't live here if I didn't like it. I don't mind that the roads are not perfect at all times. I try to help out whenever I am ask.
I have noticed such negative things being said about Elk County or cities within the county, lately, that I just wonder WHY? If you don't like something that is being done, go to meetings, call your commissioners, or do something positive about it. Why all the negative things all the time? I am proud to say that I was born and raised in Severy. Attended high school here, West Elk, moved around while going to college. Married my high school sweet heart and we now live in Howard. He has always lived here, I have lived here about 12 years. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else. I am proud to live here.
Now, can anyone say nice things about Elk County? I just want to see. No gripping about the roads, the schools, the taxes. Why do you like to live here? Just wondering if there are others that are glad to live here, and appreciate it!!!
Angie, it is going to take me a while to list the good things about Elk County, so I will get back to you later.
Angie, it will take a while for forum members to say what they think are the positive reasons for living in Elk County. I only lived there in summer visits at my grandmother's house, and after she (and my mother) passed away, then only visited a few times. So, I really have no say on this subject. However, I do remember the kindness and generosity of the people; how people came together and helped those who needed help; the old fashioned traditions that are still in place. I can remember (and that is a hard thing to do!) how when someones family would lose a family member, my aunts coming together to provide food and comfort and whatever else was needed for that family.
Living in Southern California, where things are so much different, blurs the memories of small town traditions. Here, if you don't like your neighbor next door, you can actually co-exist without speaking to them unless it is absolutely necessary. People you see while shopping, you may never see again unless they work in that store.
Those of you who live in Elk County have it good and despite the problems with the roads or whatever is not right, a small community setting makes it possible for the citizens to come together for the good of all. You won't see that where I live.
You can slap my hand, but what "she" said, "It takes a village", etc. etc. Reading some negative posts on the forum makes me think that some of you don't really appreciate what you have.
I know that in my grandparents and my parents day, it wouldn't be about "here's my taxes, fix it", but, "I will pay my taxes to help the county and whatever I can do to help, I will do."
Time for a second cup!!!
Larryj
I can name the good things about Elk County very quickly.
1. The people
2.The people
3. The people
4. The People
5. the People
6. The People
7. The people
8. The people
9.The people
10. The People
I was born in Elk County, lived there until I was 25 years old and I still love the area and the people. I would live there now if not for my wife's health.
If there's a traffic jam (and you're driving instead of walking ;) ) it takes you half a minute to go around instead of half an hour.
My neighbors watch out for me & mine even before being asked
The guys at the recycling trailer always say "Hi" and pet our dog Squirt
If I have a problem with someone, it's simple to find them or get in touch to work things out in person.
I can jaywalk :police: and not worry about being run over (though a few folks will pretend to rev up the motor)
I have actually met every member of my city council, county commissioners and school board, in person; and they know me too.
Dog food at the vet's office here is cheaper than at WalMartTheEvilEntity. Plus they actually remember me and my pets.
The grocery, pharmacy and hardware stores have everything you could want, or they can get it within the week. Bonus: I can park within 10 feet of the door (assuming I'm not walking :angel:)
Pat at P&J's just makes my day every time I see her mopping up my muddy footprints and telling me not to worry about it ::) Feels like home.
I can leave a note on my front door for delivery people, and they'll hunt me down that day.
Howard has a SWEET fitness center now... I really should walk more
I have been so pleased with the friendships and business contacts we have made in Elk County. Also, I'm impressed with the number of people who have moved to Elk County for retirement, or as a central location as they continue to do day-to-day business throughout the nation.
The Elk Konnected organization is one of the most positive and forward-thinking groups I've ever seen.
You have every reason to wake up each morning and breathe a prayer of thanks for living in Elk County. If I were 10 years younger, I'd move there myself. But we've lived in the same town for 40 years and probably won't make a change.
I hold great hope for Elk County because it's in line for a big blessing. I really feel it coming.
We have lived in Elk County for 25 years, and I want to say the citizens of this community are the friendliest people I have ever seen. We were always accepted from the beginning, and we just have loved every minute of it. Our children started school at West Elk as a 7th grader and a sophomore. They loved it from the start. It is a great school. We had lived in a town of about 4,000, and the school was twice as big, but it wasn't as good. Bigger doesn't mean better! Also, all those things Joanna said fit right into what I think. We lived in town for 12 years before moving to the country. Yes, the streets had pavement, and my car didn't get dirty; but I love the country! Sometimes problem roads are just a sacrifice we make to live in the country.
Elk County is HOME it is love, comfort, happiness, family and friends all rolled into one ----Need I say more?
Angie,
As you may know I grew up in New Orleans. Growing up I always said there would be no way I would ever live someplace without all the conveniences of a big city. That was till I moved to Howard. Life was moving at a different pace. I found I didn't need all the trappings of the city, but maybe for a visit to Indy or Wichita once a month. I liked waking up and being able to look out the front window and see deer in the front yard in the am. Or going to bed at night and hearing the coyote howl at night. I loved that my kids were safe and could go anywhere in town on their bikes. I truly miss Howard and its wonderfull people. My favorite was the Halloween traditions. I tell people about it all the time.
I live in a smaller town now but it just isnt the same. Like some of the other responses, I live where I do now mainly because I have to, although I did choose the little town i lived in because it was far enough away from the big city to still have that small town feel.
Maybe somday when I retire I may just have to move back to KS and live out the rest of my days in the one place I felt I could truly call home.
Well, Angie, I am back. I haven't been able to come up with a list of why I live in Elk County or what is good about it. After reading the other responses, all I have to say is:
ALL OF THE ABOVE!!!!!!
All of the above
and
people like Wilma who want positives in life instead of always looking for what's wrong . . .
the "it takes a village" mentality . . . when I had kids at home, I loved the fact that everyone watched out for them. Admonished them when needed and always (or so it seemed) took the time to praise them for the positives . . .
I grew up in Iowa, in towns the size of Howard, visited my grandparents and family in Howard each summer, moved to Chicago as soon as I graduated from high school. I loved Chicago; lived there for 2 years. But that was then.
My kids have graduated, don't have to worry about their school any more. We moved here from Independence - the school system here was MUCH better for my kids.
I choose to live in Howard. I like the people, the atmosphere, the shops, the friendliness, the pace of life and the intensity of feelings.
I'm lovin' all this positive input! Thank you Angie; it is so refreshing!
This sure beats the grumping. I know we all have "Cabin-Fever" At least I hope that is all it is. Some of the
comments made me think about leaving the forum, because it wasn't homey.
I am from Topeka. I go home to visit and may never see anyone I know.
Here, I walk a lot and when I first started walking, there wasn't a day when someone would stop and see if I needed a ride.
When I walk down the street, my arm gets tired with all the waving I do. Seldom is it a car/truck of strangers.
Even visiters to Longton will smile and wave if we make eye contact.
Mom use to warn me NOT TO LOOK in the car that was parked next to us at a traffic light, cause the people might have a gun and shoot into our car.....................Well, in Elk County I am sure there is a gun in the truck, most are prepared for coyotes/snakes and which ever critter needs to be put down. Or armadillo hunting!!
I can walk at night and except my old eyes don't see so well, not fear for my health.
I love it here and plan on staying until my health does fail and then would need to go closer to family, maybe.
Seems I have more family here in the county and even tho we aren't blood kin, we are connected.
This is God's County Look at all the Christ loving people here.
Elk County is such a good neighbor. By the way I went to your clinic for the first time today and was quite impressed. Don't you GOOD people dare leave. :police: :police:
And I like being able to see the stars at night. And meteor shows.
Spent most of 40 years in and around Severy....born and raised there.....graduated from West Elk in the OLD school downtown....most of our family is still there and in Howard.....my sons graduated from West Elk.......my ROOTS are there.....so are Joes....the place we live now is a LOT like it.....wouldn't trade a minute of the time I spent there.
I'll throw my 2 cents in on this one. Contrary to what it might seem, I actually like living in Elk County. Hunting, fishing, fresh air, don't have to worry about my kids playing outside or going to the park. I like the fact that if I want to put up a fence, or do a little work on my house I don't have to get 1001 permits, I like that if I forget to lock my car at night or even my front door I really don't have to worry about it. Elk county may have its problems (hey, no place is perfect) but this is my home, and I ain't leaving.
I see all the events that are going on in Elk Co and know if I lived there I would go to them all. I'd be pickin with the Old Time Fiddlers and singin' in all the concerts. When I am sitting in the crazy traffic here in Springfield, I think about going back to Elk Co where there is only one stop light. (I'd be a nicer person without all that road rage). Anyway, you all may be surprised someday at how many of us move back if we can only figure out a way.
We would welcome you back with open arms!! Hurry on back!
Our family roots are here.
Our good friends are here.
We have people of all ages to make good and positive things happen.
We have four beautiful seasons to enjoy.
The beautiful eagles come to visit each year.
The wildlife is awesome.
The livestock, crops and grasslands are wonders to behold.
Elk County is home to some pretty amazing people.
These are just a few of the reasons why we are mighty glad to live here.
QuoteI think about going back to Elk Co where there is only one stop light.
We have a stop light?
:D :D :D
ELK FALLS is the place to be, ain't no people any better than the Friends of Elk Falls! We have a very quaint little town away from the hustle bustle of things these days, and our outhouse tour festival every November is the best time! Yeah, where is that stop light? LOL
I can sit on my front porch and not only wave at everyone that drives by..but I know them ..and their mama and daddy and most likely their grandparents.. ;D
My keys are in my little truck and I have no worries that they and my truck will still be in my drive the next morning.
My back door and sometimes my front door is unlocked while I sleep.. no worries...
I can walk by myself day or night and any time at night and never worry about not being safe.
I smile and greet everyone I meet by their first name and they do the same with me. (and usually give them some kind of verbal trouble) ;D
I can walk into Julies drug store and grocery store and it comes to more $ than I grabbed.. I take my stuff and tell them I'll be right back with the money.. and they smile and write the amt on a scrap of paper . And I go home and get the money..
A month ago.. a lady I have known all my life said" Here's the couple of bucks Teresa.. I'll catch you later and you can pay me back".. :) ( Of which I did when I saw her go into the post office, * she had forgotten about it.. I hadn't*)
There's no zoning rules to tell me what I can do and can't do on my own property..
I can carry a rifle in my truck.. and no one thinks anything about it.
Its quiet and peaceful after 6:00 at night...
I can open all my windows in the spring while I sleep and not worry about the noise or pollution in the air.
I can drive just a hop skip and a jump and go fishing or hunting... anytime I want to.
I could go on and on and on.... :)
Quote
I think about going back to Elk Co where there is only one stop light.
We have a stop light?
I saw that too, signs maybe and when West Elk is in session doesn't the light on the highway work?
I sure have been enjoying this thread. Keep up the good work.
Quotedoesn't the light on the highway work
You're right, it does. I guess school zone lights are stop-lights.!
;)
Such great comments!! I have to agree, love the positive. I love Elk County!!!
Guess what I like about Elk County differs from most folks. I like it because we have old hand dug wells all over the place. Wells in the timber---wells where an old homestead was----wells in pastures. One more year of fishing with Sarge listening to him brag about being the best harmonica player---he caught the biggest fish---he caught the most fish---he trapped more coons than me---and on & on & on !!!! It never ends. Every man has a breaking point and---lets just say I love having all these old wells around !!!!
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:D I must have dreamed up the one stoplight. No stoplights is even better.
I love it here because I feel like I can trust people. My wonderful friend Connie has lived around here for a long time and she told me I could trust people here. These are REAL people here, who are learning to trust me as well. I came here to try to make a business of my own in a town where I could feel safe. Many people have adopted me, and look out for me. I cannot tell how great it makes me feel to know that there are still people like ya'll around. I feel great about doing something I enjoy while working hard and putting out a good product.
Because of the hours I keep I do not get out and do a lot especially when it is cold. I am kind of a hermit in the wintertime. I do not like the winter at all. I am looking forward to the spring and summer to really enjoy all the town/county has to offer. I have a little RV and look forward to little mini vacations at the area lakes many weekends.
I have to say I really like the people here.
I am always a thread killer. :'(
Nope, just don't worry about it, I am usually the thread killer! LOL!! We can be right there together!! We love you miss Debi!!!
What thread did you kill? I haven't missed any threads. I have, however, missed a lot of people posting. There was nothing yesterday afternoon and most of the evening. Don't tell me you are responsible for everybody being too busy to get on here, too?
Well it is a running joke at the donut shop that I am in part responsible for a lot of stuff that goes wrong around here because of "that Mexican" I am married to. LOL! I take it just how it is meant, as a joke.
Funny~~ I always blame "that Norwegian" I'm married to.. ;D ;D
We have been living here in Elk Co. for 6 years. Love the fact that you can see the stars out here without big city lights intruding, and the people here dont hold it against us for being Okies too bad...People here are quick to help you if you need it and we arent too far from big city convieniences, good hunting and fishing. One of the things I love the most about my job is that I get to see all of the old homes even the ones that arent there all over the county and wonder what life must have been like then.
Who says we don't hold it against you for being an "Okie".. ;)
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;D ;D
LOL I would like to thank you , I enjoy reading and being able to reply to the forum there is a lot of really cool stuff on here.
Ron Johnson
Saw him working today on the small bridge from Washington Street to the new park.
I always felt safe in Severy and lived there for more than 60 yrs. Moved to Howard in 2005 and it's a nice little town. I was, I thought, familiar with most of the people here. At least 50 % of them anyhow. BUT, lacking someplace else to put it, ( I had plenty of storage in Severy) I slid two full sheets of plywood between the poles of the carport and house so they would be dry till I needed them. SOMEONE needed them first. Went to get a sheet a few months ago to take to the table saw in the basement, and I DON'T HAVE ANY PLYWOOD. No I didn't call the police to report the theft. I don't know exactly when they were taken and how do I describe them? ..... they were 4x8 ft. in size and the color of wood and there were 2 of them ......
@ flo: and this is a good thing about Elk Co. because...........? Oh yes. It's because people like me are very sorry that someone stole your plywood. If I had seen someone taking your plywood I would have told you and the police. If someone in my house brought your plywood home, I would have sent them right back to your house to return it, confess, and apologize. That's why this is a good thing about Elk County.
Jarhead is lucky that he can't fit in any of the old dug wells around here. Even if he had a skinny body he wouldn't fit because if his big head. 40 years ago he was a Marine so he thinks he can sit around and bark out orders to me.
Tell me where you live (boy, that sounds scary) and I'll bring you two new sheets of plywood.
Now you know why I insist my garage stay locked. Elk County is a good place to live. Unfortunately, there are some undesirables that also think that way. It isn't just my Sedgwick County paranoia.
Quote from: Sarge on March 07, 2010, 07:40:47 AM
Jarhead is lucky that he can't fit in any of the old dug wells around here. Even if he had a skinny body he wouldn't fit because if his big head. 40 years ago he was a Marine so he thinks he can sit around and bark out orders to me.
Well Tubby,if that aint calling the kettle black and what do you mean saying that"he was a Marine' ?? In case you aint heard---ONCE A MARINE--ALWAYS A MARINE !! Just because you Flyboys didn't have any catchy slogans like that don't mean you can trash talk me.Tell me one more time Flyboy---what kind of pilot were you ?
One last thing---and I aint trying to cause friction, but Larry told me that if R.A.M.B.O. ever came face to face with Shep, your Sentry dog---------------------let's just say, ol Shep's throat would have been ripped out !!!!
Rudy!! Put your long-handled spoon away and quit stirring the pot! ::)
And this thread is called GOOD THINGS ABOUT ELK COUNTY. :D :police:
Quote from: jarhead on March 07, 2010, 12:18:55 PM
Larry told me that if R.A.M.B.O. ever came face to face with Shep, your Sentry dog---------------------let's just say, ol Shep's throat would have been ripped out !!!!
Shep could handle 3 rambo's at once without breaking a sweat. Once a Marine always a Marine, pffft! Why didn't you stay in for 20 years 10 days and 8 hours like I did? I wasn't a pilot, I told pilots where to go. And Larry, you quit causing trouble. Don't be telling Tarbaby any made up stories.
Do all you folks see what I have to put up with?
What made up stories?
My momma told me to always speak the truth because you can remember the truth. You can't always remember a lie or who you told it to.
And, as far as Shep is concerned, he has nothing to worry about. R.A.M.B.O. is a card carrying peacenik and has no violent tendencies except when he or I are threatened. He does not engage in any kind of fighting especially after he has had his nails done, well, except for that stupid neighbor's cat (Which is still MIA).
And, Sarge, you told pilots where to go? Did any of them tell you where to go? ;D
Larryj
They tried to Larry, but I would just say "Roger, acknowledge cancellation of IFR at xxxx zulu." They would then become very friendly, quite jocular as a matter of fact.
;D ;D ;D
When I went in, I was given the opportunity to go to flight school and learn how to fly helos, change my service from two years to three years and become a warrant officer. Back in those early days of 'Nam, everyone knew the lifespan of a WO flying a chopper was about 30 seconds so I declined. Funny now, because out here we have so many news and police choppers flying around and I look at them and think "gee, I should have become on of those guys."
Larryj
Hey Larry, I think you were quite smart in refusing that offer.
Yesterday I was driving home from Wichita in the pouring rain. I stopped at the I60 hamburger place in Longton. I asked them if there was a dining area because I was tired of driving in the rain and didn't want to eat and drive at the same time. They said no, but then the lady said, "we have a little chair and TV tray in the corner if you don't mind sitting in here with us you can come in and eat your hamburger, use the rest room and just relax before you start driving again." So I did and visited with them. That is that good old small town caring about people that I love.
And, that, Roma Jean, is something you would rarely see in SoCal.
And, that, is what is good about living in Elk County.
Larryj
I like being at home of an evening, remembering I left something at church, and am able to go retrieve it and be back home within 10 minutes.