INFORMATION FROM THE PUBLIC….FOR THE PUBLIC!!

Deadline for submitting information for this weekly distribution is Monday at 5 PM!

DID YOU KNOW Clay County Economic Development Group has a Face book page? “Befriend” us at http://www.facebook.com/#!/profile.php?id=100002211383145

 Let us know what you have going on, sales or specials or anything your business is doing - so we can post it on the page as well as put it in this weekly news letter!! Tell your friends to “like” it also!

Don’t forget to send in your 2012 membership dues if you haven’t already!

NEW ITEMS for December

DID YOU KNOW Pinsetters bowling center is available to host your New Years Eve party?  Call Teia at (785) 630-0708 with questions or to schedule your party.

DID YOU KNOW Leaving Signs Behind can still provide you with Lincoln Cubs t-shirts as well as 50^th Annual Wrestling Club t-shirts? Stop in Leaving Signs Behind to get one!

DID YOU KNOW Pinsetters Bowling Center is starting a 9-WEEK MIDDLE SCHOOL BOWLING LEAGUE!  Nothing for your kids to do during the off season?  This is the perfect fit.  Bowling is something kids can do their whole life and with people of any age and skill level.   This league will meet each Tuesday afternoon starting January 9^th and go through March 6^th (ends before track starts).  Youth will get to bowl three games each week.  We will try to start at 3:45 and should be done by 5:30 p.m.  Eight dollars a week covers your three games and shoe rental.  Kids can choose their own teams and we will see who becomes the best bowlers in the middle school!  We will have a cosmic bowling party on the last week and award trophies for various achievements.   Youth can sign-up outside the office or call Teia at (785)630-0708 to sign-up or with questions.  We will also have an informational meeting at the school prior to the league starting.

DID YOU KNOW Girl Scout Cookies are now available? They would make a great addition to your holiday dessert table, or wrapped with a bow under your tree for that hard to shop for person.  Or maybe you'd like to send some overseas for family and friends stationed away from home for the holidays.  If you would like Girl Scout cookies, please call Jeanna at 630-5060 and she will have a Girl Scout contact you!

DID YOU KNOW there is a piano tuning business in operation in Clay Center? Moore Stewart Piano Tuning, operated by Stewart Moore, offers piano tuning for the Clay Center area. He originally performed his services in Manhattan with Charles Faulk, a piano tuner there (who used to do tuning in Clay Center, but is not going out of town anymore). His business phone number is 632-3650 and his e-mail is pianotune2@yahoo.com

DID YOU KNOW Penny Smith made and donated a beautiful handmade Christmas tree skirt with sequins to benefit the Clay County Relay for Life.  The Christmas tree skirt is on display at Citizen’s National Bank.  Tickets are $1.00 each or 6 for $5.00.  Tickets are available from Penny Smith at Pamida, Nancy Lee at Citizen’s National Bank, Deb Moon at Union State Bank, any other team member, or by calling Linda Underwood at 785-632-0369 (cell) or 785-632-6233 (home).  The drawing will be held on December 18^th, and you need not be present to win.  The winner will receive a phone call notifying them of the prize.  Please help us kick off this fundraiser for the 2012 Clay County Relay for Life.  Thanking you in advance for your participation in this event.

FUNDRAISER

Corey Lee Doza was born April 15, 1977 at Salina, Ks.  His family moved back to Clay Center shortly after his birth.  George and Rose Savery were long time residents of Clay Center, along with his mother, Cynthia, and father, Frederick Doza.  Fred, as he was called passed away unexpectedly when Corey was 17 years old.  Corey has one sister, Gloria, who now resided in Lenexa, Ks. with her husband and family.  Corey attended Lincoln, Garfield, and Clay County Community High School here in Clay Center.  Corey ventured out in the working field.  He wanted a car; his dad told him “Boy, you’ll have to get a job.”  Corey worked at a pig farm, buying his 1^st car, a Chevy, and then painting the Taz Mania Devil on its door, demonstrating his zest for life with zing.  His 2^nd job would begin in roofing since his dad had schooled him in this field.  A few years later he would be hired by a contractor to work at Ft. Riley where he would do cable TV installations.  Corey would then be hired by Jimmie Thatcher where he learned to install dry wall.  While working for Thatcher Drywall, he would learn a trade that would enable him to venture out on his own.  Taking his knowledge, he started his own drywall business in 2009 naming it “Doza Drywall.”  He now ran a crew of 4 workers, and Corey was a stern, but fair boss.  His clients returned because he prevailed by his work motto “clean, quality work.”  Doza Drywall covered a work area as far out as Cawker City to Beloit, Manhattan, Salina, Junction City, and all other smaller communities in the surrounding area. 

On the personal side of Corey, anyone who knew Corey knew that he worked hard and played hard.  It would be nothing on a nice summer day for Corey to say “the fish are calling” or “it’s nice weather for hunting” or “let’s call it a day and see if the fish are jumping.”  Weekends were spent at Milford Lake where the campfire was kept hot, and no one but Corey would be the camp cook.  There he’d be with his cast iron cookware and a hot fire awaiting the day’s catch, frying fish and potatoes in the evening and awaking to the smell of bacon and eggs on a clear crisp morning.  Days were spent with boat rides and swimming in the lake.  All these traits were acquired from his father, as Corey was an avid hunter and fisherman.  As hunting season came around, there was Corey with all his helpful hunting gear, bow in hand or rifle at aim.  Early morning, still dark and cold, Corey would put on his hunting jacket and cap with shotgun in hand, and off into the field as the morning air showed foggy as he drew his breath.  Anticipation in shooting the big one (the big buck so proudly displayed as he and his son posed for a picture).  He was always sharing his catfish catch of the day with those not so enthused sports people (his Aunt). 

There were evening & weekends, BBQ’s or celebrating a birthday.  Corey would be at the grill cooking the favorites: hamburgers, hot dogs, ribs, chicken, and other times the slow simmering flavor of smoking them in his smoker.  His favorite holiday, of course, was Christmas.  He’s come walking in with his famous pot of “Potato Soup” and a big bag of gifts for the famous “grab bag drawings”. 

To all who knew Corey from family, friends, co worker, boss remember his tender heart and stern values.  Work hard, play hard as he valued those around him; his 1^st love was to his mother, sister, and two children, Joey & Isabella.  It was nothing for Corey to load up household items and give to you if you needed them, lend you money when needed, or take time to come around the block on a snowy winter day and finish shoveling your sidewalk just to help you out.  Corey’s time as a father/dad was in teaching his son Joey.  At a young age, Joey knows the importance of sitting still while in a hunting stand.  In the evening hours, time would be spent reading the Old Farmer’s Almanac for kids, watching the history channel, hunting shows, and playing a hunting trivia game.  Corey’s life was short, but his memories are not.  This is just a glimpse into the life of a wonderful young man. 

Corey leaves behind two young children, Joey, now 7 years old, and Isabella, 8 months old.  He also left all those who loved and valued him for his caring demeanor and love to family and friends. 

Corey’s sister, Gloria, remembers this about her brother.  From an early age, Corey was instilled with a heart of honesty, loyalty, commitment to family, and the love of hunting.  Through his life he showed this to many people.    After some tough years, after losing Dad, Corey matured into a man of character who would go to the end of the earth to live up to his words. 

Growing up, Corey was always protective and generally would not make a stink of things, but his opinion was know to the people he thought needed to know them.  He would not boast to others of his opinion. 

Even though he spent a lot of time working hard, and stewing about starting his own company, he took a leap of faith and did it - all while being a single father, showing his son, Joey, the love and grace of a father.  His son was his world.  With a full plate of running a company and being a dad, he still managed to find the time to show Joey and others the sweetness of life - hunting and fishing.  I feel this was Corey’s peace in life.  If things were getting tough, take time with the ones you loved and head into the country.  He was patient, even if you broke his fishing pole and enjoyed a good catch.  

I was so proud of Corey for the direction his life was heading and for his accomplishments.  The last time I saw him, I am so thankful that I got to give him a hug and tell him how proud I was of him.  (We all know how much he loved affection).  Things were going well, his business was starting to gain some good clientele, and he owned his own home in the country, just had a little girl, was raising a spirited little boy, and bought a new boat.  What more could a proud father ask for? 

Corey would not be too afraid to jump into a little jig while cooking in the kitchen to a favorite song that would bring back memories.  It was so cute.  He would make holidays special by preparing some homemade summer sausage, cooking awesome cheesy potato soup, and ensuring that the kids sat out cookies for Santa.  Even from an early age, waking up on Christmas morning was my fondest memories.  We loved Christmas. 

He was never in too big of a hurry to sit and listen to your troubles…and recommend fishing as the remedy.  And…he would take you! 

Corey and the Blue Herron sponsored the first Memorial Day Fishing Tournament this year, and those that attended had a great time!  I look forward to seeing that continue in Corey’s spirit!  Those close to Corey got to feel his heart; one of the last fishing was a push for a father and son to have some bonding time.  Not between Corey and his son, but between James and his father.  This was Corey’s heart…when he saw trouble he pushed for the resolution.  He encouraged another father to spend time with his son, to create a closeness…well, because life was too short for anything else.  Love the moments you have. 

The value of loving your family was huge to Corey and most important to him.  Everything else in life…well, could just wait.  He had a tender, soft side to him that only those close to him got to see.  His smile will forever be missed and memories cherished. 

Corey’s nephew, James Herron writes this about him.   The person who was and still is most important to me is my uncle Corey.  He was like a second dad to me.  When my dad was in Iraq and working out of town for BAE, Corey was the one who took me hunting, fishing, and four wheeling riding.  The day before he got in his four wheeler wreck, I went to work with him, and that day planned on going fishing at the lake.  My dad had other plans, though, so he said I couldn’t go.  After I hung up with my dad, Uncle Corey called him and talked to him, and he ended up going with us.  It was fun and the last thing I did with my uncle.  He liked the outdoors a lot, as me; we enjoyed camping together.  This summer my uncle Corey passed away in a four wheeler wreck on July 1, 2011. 

A fundraiser is being planned to help with medical expenses and provide an education fund for Corey’s two children.  An on-air auction is being held on KCLY 100.9 FM on Wednesday, Dec. 21, 2011 beginning at 1:00 p.m.  We will also be having a pulled pork supper next week.  The date will be announced later this week.  Thrivent Financial for Lutherans Stone Post Chapter #30336 is graciously providing $505 in matching funds for this family. 

Anyone wishing to make a donation to help this family is encouraged to send it to:  Corey Doza Estate, %Leonardville State Bank, 102 W. Barton St., Leonardville, Ks  66449.  Please keep Corey’s children and his family in your prayers as they continue through their healing process.  Please give this fundraiser your prayerful consideration, as well.  Thanking you in advance for your participation.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION/UPCOMING EVENTS

DID YOU KNOW Incentives are available to qualified businesses based on the location of the facility, type of facility (manufacturing or non-manufacturing), capital investment made, and number of jobs created.  Some of these incentives expire December 31^st, 2011.  If you are planning to expand your facility or purchase equipment that will create new jobs call the Clay County Economic Development office at 632-5974.

DID YOU KNOW Clay County Medical Center will be offering a CPR/AED and First Aid course on January 3, 2012 from 8:30AM – 3:45PM  This course provides a framework for learning basic skills that may save a life or prevent further injury. In this course you will learn First aid basics and CPR and how to use an AED. The course will be held in the education centers and the fee is $85 per participant.  You can register by calling the education department at 785-632-2144, ext. 254. 

News This Week!

Showing at the Rex Theater Thursday and Friday at 7:30PM   and Saturday the 24th (Christmas Eve) and Monday the 26th at 2:00PM IS "Alvin and the Chipmunks- Chip Wrecked" When Alvin and the Chipmunks board a luxury cruise liner for a little R&R with Dave and the Chipettes, they naturally get themselves into trouble ... and end up "chipwrecked" castaways on a deserted tropical island.

Chamber of Commerce has a weekly community coffee.  They will meet on Wednesday mornings at 8:00AM.

Rotary meets every Thursday at Noon.

Clay County Commission meets every Monday at 8:30AM.

Center Lion’s Club meets every Tuesday at Noon.

Weight Watchers meets every Tuesday at the Evangelical Covenant Church 1330 15^th Street. Weigh in is between 5:30 – 6:00PM, the meeting starts at 6:00 and goes to 6:30. For new members there will be a short Getting Started session after the meeting.

The Center Masonic Lodge 134 meet 1st and 3rd Wed. of each month. If anyone is interested in finding out more about joining or about the shrine they can contact Jeff at 785 447 2889

DID YOU KNOW the KCLY Radio Mall can help save you money at many of your favorite businesses? Log onto www.kclyradio.com and click on the shopping bag icon that say “Radio Mall”.  You can save money at local businesses, for both the practical needs and the splurges. At the KCLY Radio Mall you buy certificates at a discount.  Purchase your cash certificates on line and they will be mailed directly to you whether its restaurants, auto parts, or a bouquet of flowers – the Radio Mall is simply saving you money!   

DID YOU KNOW, Employers with an available position may contact ACAP (Army Career Alumni Program) about the positions? ACAP will promote the positions by posting them at their center. Additionally, counselors will be informed of the position and get the information to Soldiers who are qualified candidates. To inform the ACAP office of available jobs, simply call 785-239-2278 or fax information to 785-239-2251.

The Clay County Economic Development Group is hosting several workshops in the next couple of months related to business transition, finance, and marketing.  To learn more about any of these workshops call the Economic Development Group’s office at 632-5974 or stop by their office at 517 Court Street.  The facebook and website design workshops require the participant to bring a laptop.  All workshops cost $25.

Facebook 201 – Setting Up a Business facebook Page will be held January 17^th at the Clay County Medical Center from 10:00am to noon.  In order to attend this workshop you will need to already have a personal facebook page.  In this workshop you will learn how to create a business page, publish it, and become a fan of your own business page.  You will also learn how to create an engaging business page, set privacy, and upload business information including pictures, logos, and website.

Website Design Made Easy will be held January 17^th at the Clay County Medical Center from 2:00 to 4:00 pm.  This workshop is hands-on.  You will actually create your own website and learn how to maintain it yourself using VistaPrint tools.  A credit/debit card is required to acquire a domain name and set up your own website account during class.

Exit Planning for the Business Owner will be held January 20^th at the El Puerto Mexican Restaurant from noon to 2:00pm.  Find out which value drivers you should focus on to increase the value of your business prior to any transfer or sale.  Learn the solutions to the four primary problems sole-owned and co-owned companies face when an owner dies or becomes disabled.  Exit planning helps you maximize your financial return and minimize your tax liability when you transfer your business. 

Making CentS of Financial Statements will be held February 2^nd at the Clay County Medical Center from 2:00 to 4:00pm.  In this workshop you will learn what ratio analysis, benchmarking, and industry statistics are and how to use them to improve your business.  You will also learn how to use your periodic financial statements to uncover hidden profit opportunities, how to leverage your accounting relationship, and what banks are looking for.

facebook 301- Growing Your Business on facebook will be held February 23^rd at the Clay County Medical Center from 10am to noon.  Attend this session to learn what you should be posting on your business page and how frequently.  You will also learn how to add fans to your business page, go viral, draw on your network, create events, optimize searches, and advertise on facebook to market your business.  You must have a business facebook page before attending this workshop. 

Facebook 401 – Using eCommerce on Your Business facebook Page will be held February 23^rd from 2:00 to 4:00pm.  This session is for people who have had a business facebook page for awhile and feel comfortable using it.  In it you will learn how to set up the eCommerce features on your business facebook page and how to market it to your customers.