By Ron Wilson, director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University.
Can first impressions lead to changes in communities? Yes, based on the experience of one rural community which used the First Impressions program as a springboard for strategic actions to make community improvements.
Gary Olson is an entrepreneur, farmer, and real estate broker in Gypsum, Kansas. He grew up on a nearby farm and now produces seed wheat and has a real estate company. He’s also seen the struggles of rural communities. “Our town had about died,” Gary said.
In January 2019, he bought a building in downtown Gypsum and revitalized the flea market which had been operating there as a place for vendors to sell various products. Some are original custom products, such as from a nearby welding shop. Others are used or repurposed products that can be purchased affordably. People can sell items on consignment or donate them. “Our customers say they find hidden treasures here,” Gary said.
Resa Risinger is now the flea market manager. She noted that the market offered special promotions during the holidays such as a drawing for a free turkey and three hams. Continue reading “Gary Olson, Gypsum”
