Small Town Has A Lot Going On, Reports Every Visiting Politician

Story by Jacob Zlomke 

| Published Sep 22, 2009

According to every politician that has ever visited, the town of Elkview is on the verge of an economic boom. Each politician has noted that the town, with a population of about 3,500, has a wonderful community support system as well as many up and coming small businesses.

“Last week we had some very nice young man running for state legislature or something like that,” Lisa Wewel, avid supporter of small town businesses, said, “and he didn’t have anything bad to say about Elkview. He even mentioned our hard work ethic and determination.”

Other community members have also mentioned politicians’ praise for their central Nebraska town.

“About a year or so ago, we unveiled our brand new slogan No Need to Drive, Elkview is Alive! and we had a little cookout in the city square,” Brian Campbell, Elkview’s economic planner, said, “and about three of those government guys came through—each one just went on and on about how Elkview is on the progressive edge of the plains states.”

Campbell also added that, though he was not quite sure what they meant by that, they all definitely had his vote.

According to Elkview Chamber of Commerce, the village has opened up one new restaurant in the past five years, as well as a pawn shop, a grocery store and a farm equipment store.

“Not too long ago, Runza opened up a place here in Elkview and we were obviously very excited about that,” Campbell said, “because, not only is it a good family eating establishment, but also it will put us on the map to have a big-name chain restaurant like Runza.”

State Congressman Joseph Harvat spoke at the Elkview Runza grand opening, an event that merited a parade and free Frings for all.

“Of course I agreed to speak at the Elkview Runza opening,” Harvat said, “it was a very big day for that community, and I have to support my constituents, right?”

Stephanie Maas, Elkview’s event coordinator, said the town has several events in the works.

“We have our yearly sidewalk sale, for one. And then there is our city-wide ice cream social, as well as a few other things,” Maas said.

Maas also said that each event has one or two politicians up for reelection lined up to speak.

“And of course, if they’re smart enough to recognize how increasingly dynamic we are here, then they’ve all got my vote,” Maas said.