Friday’s “See, Hear Iola!” program illustrates community morale is growing.
A variety of speakers took the podium to report good news in and around town.
Realtor John Brocker said the local housing market is improving.
“We’re seeing houses being bid on right as they get on the market,” he said.
Donna Houser spoke on behalf of the Iola Area Chamber of Commerce and highlighted upcoming events, such as kick-off of the fall sports season and Iola’s citywide garage sale Sept. 15.
With the Buster Keaton celebration prominently among them, Bowlus Fine Arts Center Executive Director Susan Raines presented a brief commercial announcement about upcoming festivities.
The Keaton celebration is Sept. 28 and 29 and is expected to bring in a number of special guests from around the world.
“It is an economic plus for the community,” Raines said.
Past attendance drew crowds of up to 600; this year shouldn’t be any different, she said.
With lodging, food and retail sales, the Keaton celebration adds about $118,000 to the Iola economy, Raines said.
“Come and enjoy the event and make sure to say ‘hi’ to everyone you see because there will be a lot of strange faces that week,” Raines said.
The Buster Keaton celebration events are free to the public.
To attend the Buster Keaton dinner there is a $30 donation per person. Spots are filling up quickly, Raines said.
Keaton family members will be a part of this year’s celebration, the 20th annual.
Among other upcoming Bowlus events:
Passing Zone, a juggling and comedy act, will be taking the stage Oct. 20. Birdhouse Factory, Katie Armiger, Celtic Crossroads and other performances will provide ample entertainment for audiences of all ages.
