There is an old saying in real estate — location, location, location.
I am beginning to believe that it is also true in tourism. In the past couple of weeks, I have been treated to three locations in the greater Joplin community planning major league tourism events.
We all know that Joplin is a transportation hub because of our location at the crossroads of Interstate 44 and Highway 71. 4 State Trucks located at I-44 and Highway 43 has a national reputation as the home of Chrome Shop Mafia. They are planning a truck show on Oct. 9 and 10 that is estimated to attract hundreds of truckers and truck enthusiasts to the Joplin community. During a tour of the shop, I realized what an amazing attraction Joplin is because of our location. We attract truckers from across the nation. Joplin is ideally located in the center of the country so we attract drivers from all directions.
As my excitement grew over the custom-truck creations, it was pointed out to me that Joplin could attract transportation-related shows, seminars and conventions throughout the calendar year.
Just when I thought trucks ruled, I ran into Erin Lacey, the owner of the White Knight Arena in Joplin. She has created a world-class facility for horse events. However, the most interesting aspect of her arena is that national horse trainers and teachers are using the facility for their teaching programs. Craig Cameron held his Extreme Cowboy Clinic at the White Knight Arena last week. Cameron is one of the most famous cowboy horsemen in America with his own television show, books and tapes. Lacey has contracted with Karen Scholl for her “Horsemanship For Women” workshop Oct. 2-4.
These events, with national leaders in the horse industry, are scheduled throughout the year. As we talked, more possibilities emerged — what about polo, or miniature horse shows, or show jumping. The opportunities are mind-boggling.
I asked Erin: “ Why Joplin?” The answer is twofold. First, the White Knight Arena is a class facility. Second, and very important for the national presenters, is the fact that we are centrally located and easy to get to by major highways. Again, location, location, location.
Finally, after hearing about the Ozark School of Creative Arts at a recent City Council event, I went to see Greg Huff, the owner of the school. The school is in the development phase, but the location near the low-water bridge at Shoal Creek is the perfect location. It is less than a mile off I-44. Greg has attracted the best teachers from across America to come to Joplin to teach classes and hold retreats at the Ozark School of Creative Arts. He has fabric masters, glass artists, ceramics and wood workers. Greg has an eclectic background in the creative arts and his international contacts have made Joplin the location of choice for many of the master classes.
Yes, I am convinced with tourism you must take advantage of location, talent and opportunity. We have all three in Joplin.
Vince Lindstrom is the Joplin Convention and Visitors Bureau director.
