Love, Sumner
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Caldwell
Saying you were “born and raised” somewhere can fly off the tongue so easily, but the sentiment behind it means so much more. Being “born and raised” can mean a lot to some people, or nothing at all to others. But for me, being “born and raised” in Caldwell, Kansas is something I will forever be proud of.
I recently moved back to Caldwell, after 20+ years of living in other Kansas communities. Every community I lived in never compared to my hometown. I was raised to show pride in my community, to help others in my community, to support businesses in my community. We are a community full of rich history, funny anecdotes and maybe a ghost story or two.
Caldwell is located at least an hour from any big city, meaning the citizens of Caldwell must work together to keep it thriving. We are proud of our school, hospital, swimming pool, playgrounds, locally owned restaurants and businesses and the volunteers who promote them all daily. Whether it’s supporting a fundraiser to help a family in need, or dressing up as a Saloon Girl for the Chisholm Trial Festival. We make it all happen.
I moved back home after my life took a drastic turn with the death of my partner. It wasn’t easy, but I knew the right place for me and our daughter was to move back to Caldwell. I wanted to raise her in the same town I was raised in and teach her the things I learned as a child. My Caldwell community and family made the transition easier than I could have imagined. And now my daughter is a Bluejay just like I was.
Someone told me “home is where you heal” and I couldn’t agree more. My home, my Caldwell, is healing me in ways I never thought possible.
TESTIMONIALS
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I've been a Wellington resident for one year now, having come from Orlando FL. This is the "home town" I've yearned for.... for my entire nearly 70 years. The people are the kindest and friendliest I've ever met. Every time we go out to a store, etc.... people hold doors, visit with us, offer assistance WITH a SMILE too. I'm this side of heaven. I can't wait for each day to start.
Thank you everyone. We will meet you too eventually...lol
— Marie Perez
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South Haven
Dear reader,
There is much to be loved in the little town of South Haven. The old phrase is true: though we are small, we are mighty. With a population of just a few hundred, our town resembles one big family. As a part of the community, you will be known, be cared about, and feel a sense of belonging and connection.
While what meets the eye at first glance may not be aesthetically pleasing, it’s the roots of the community that mean the most and the little economic gems hidden within. Our bakery, Muffin Top, is a prime chance to run into neighbors and enjoy gourmet baked goods and coffees. It is often a busy place after school lets out! Our playground, Cardinal Corner Playground, is a new facility within the community park that is a meet-up destination for children and families in the summer. Our automotive repair shop, South Haven Service, and propane and fuel business, South Haven LP, are the places to get a hot cup of coffee in the morning and catch-up on local events. Their friendly staff are quick to help when you need a tire fixed or propane to keep your house warm. At Kays Café, you can find a good hamburger for lunch and visit with neighbors. The local library, South Haven Township Library, is open a few days a week and is active in bringing new books to town. At each of these businesses you will be remembered and taken care of with exception customer service as if a member of the family.
You can feel safe and confident that if your children attend the South Haven School District, they will not be just a number, but a student with a name that administration and teachers all know and watch out for, as do other parents and students. You can feel safe and confident that they will have opportunities to thrive: school sports, recreation league sports, music, art, and academic opportunities, FFA, and job studies. School staff can be seen in the community and are available for any need, they invest in your children and want to see their success.
Aside from the businesses and school district, it is the little things that some of us love the most. The morning commute, meeting the same neighbors every day with a friendly wave, the sunsets over the water tower in the summers, the tractors and grain trucks and active farming industry to name a few. The annual South Haven Fair festival where kids show their livestock, bring their turtles and bikes for races, and the parade are community highlights, as is the Halloween stroll through town where families load up on UTVs and trailers and go door-to-door. There are many ways our town feels more like a family.
I encourage you to see South Haven, to stop in and visit, to strike up conversation with a local. We are deeply rooted in community and invite you to experience the beauty of living small and simple in South Haven.
Dear Potential Neighbor,
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I hope this letter finds you well. As someone who has experienced the warmth of Sumner County, I wanted to reach out and share some exciting opportunities that await you back home. Whether you once called Kansas home or are considering a fresh start, there are countless reasons to make Kansas your home.
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Community and Lifestyle: Sumner County is known for its friendly communities and welcoming atmosphere. Within the tranquility of our rural areas, Sumner County is home to some of the greatest towns Kansas has to offer. Nothing makes you feel more at home than: cheering on your favorite team at the Mayfield ballpark, the annual Wheat Festival in Wellington packed full of fun and art, Belle Plaine’s Arboretum- which is like stepping out of time and schedule, Argonia drag races and rocket launches that keep drawing in folks from around the world, Caldwell’s unique history and their celebrations that inspire pride, Conway Springs’ unparalleled community engagement and their willingness to always help a neighbor, Oxford’s support for new businesses and their rich history, Mulvane with its bustling downtown makes you want to stay out past the time when the streetlights have come on, South Haven, where you stop and grab a coffee before starting your day. Our county is rich in cultural heritage, outdoor activities, and family-friendly events, ensuring there’s always something to enjoy.
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Career Opportunities: Kansas boasts a diverse range of career options across various industries. From agriculture and manufacturing to technology and healthcare, there are ample opportunities to grow and thrive professionally. Our state is committed to fostering innovation and supporting businesses, making it an ideal place to advance your career.
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Cost of Living: One of the most compelling reasons to choose Kansas is the significantly lower cost of living compared to many other parts of the country. Here, you can enjoy a high quality of life without the financial strain. Affordable housing, reasonable utility costs, and lower overall expenses mean you can save more and live comfortably.
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Education and Growth: Kansas is home to excellent educational institutions, from top-rated schools to renowned universities. We believe in nurturing talent and providing opportunities for lifelong learning and personal growth.
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We invite you to rediscover the beauty and potential of Kansas. Come back to a place where you can build a fulfilling career, enjoy a lower cost of living, and be part of a supportive community. Sumner County is ready to welcome you with open arms.
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If you have any questions or need more information, please feel free to reach out. We look forward to seeing you in one of our amazing communities soon!
Love,
Sumner County
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