Kansas by Choice

Entrepreneurs are heroes and innovation is the name of the game. Entrepreneurs see problems, find solutions, and create answers. November is National Entrepreneurship Month, a month-long celebration thanks to the deserving recognition of the tireless efforts entrepreneurs consistently give. National Entrepreneurship Day is annually acknowledged on the third Tuesday of November. Dickinson County EDC Recognizes Our EntrepreneursNational Entrepreneurship Month is the perfect time to celebrate Dickinson County’s exceptional entrepreneurs. These individuals’ innovative ideas make Dickinson County known as a place where economic growth is fostered! To highlight, here are two local entrepreneurs and their stories of innovation: Dennis Vahsholtz is an entrepreneurial hero...

Dickinson County is home to manufacturing companies using the latest technologies and raw materials. Manufacturing Day is the first Friday in October and expands throughout the month. We at DKEDC celebrate these companies’ employment opportunities and innovations that grow our economy.Modern ManufacturingManufacturing Month showcases the reality of modern manufacturing careers by encouraging businesses and educational institutions to open their doors to students, parents, teachers, and community leaders. Manufacturing careers are full of opportunities for exciting endeavors, personal advancement, and stability.“There’s no such thing as a low-skilled job in manufacturing anymore,” NAM Chief Economist Chad Moutray said in a 2023 Industry...

The Dickinson County Economic Development Corporation (DKEDC) is pleased to announce Jessica Goodale, of Abilene, as its new Executive Director. The DKEDC executive board of directors voted unanimously to appoint Goodale, who previously served as Interim Executive Director at DKEDC, and prior to that held the position Business Retention and Expansion (BRE) and Marketing Manager for the organization. “We are very excited to see the wide breadth of education, experience, drive and local focus that Jessica brings to the task of helping local business succeed here in Dickinson County,” said Dennis Weese, past chairman of DKEDC. Goodale is a Dickinson County native, having...

Ribbon cutting and kick-off events leap local mom’s dream into reality Aug 16, 2023 (ABILENE, Kan.)—While children need exercise and play time in their daily life, the Kansas summer heat has reached intensity levels often too hot for extended outdoor play. Timing could not be more ideal for the opening of Wee Fit Kids Gym and Activity Center, a new business located at 505 N.W. Third Street, in Abilene. The kids gym offers large youth indoor play areas catering to children aged 0-10, complete with climbing equipment, baby-friendly exploration, and sensory stations.   Owner Laurol Overlease of...