The summer is a time for relaxation, family, and grilling outside. (That last one was thrown in there in case you’re a middle-aged dad). More than that, I would venture to say that the summer is a time of personal gain. People work on their houses, lawns, and start projects they know won’t see completion until 2030. Regardless of what endeavor you plan to embark upon this summer, it can be pretty fun to see what others are up to. And for us Kansans, we have a lot to look forward to. So come along and see what’s happening around you this summer.
In Kansas, we have quite the spectacle arising this year for at least 10 days in June. The Pony Express, once the pinnacle of communication in North America, now long forgotten, will ride again throughout its historic route. Riders for the Pony Express rode about 75 to 100 miles a day on horseback and handed off their letters in a relay formation to the next rider, ensuring that Americans of old got their mail on time. The Express however was quickly replaced by a steam engine after a short tenure of only 18 months. Perhaps the postal service thought that was too short too because starting on June 17th over 700 riders will deliver letters across the country from St. Joeseph, Missouri to Sacramento, California. The Riders will cross through Kansas on Highway 36 during this process. The two opportunities to see them will be at 9 a.m. on June 18 in Marysville, and 11 a.m. in Hollenberg. You can also follow along online on an interactive map that will be available starting at 3 p.m. on June 17th.
Kansas has a couple of things going for it this summer with the continued support of the “Sunflower Summer” app that is available on mobile devices everywhere in the State. This app allows you to browse parks, museums, arts and sports opportunities, and more. Additionally, there are often coupons and promotions for certain parks that are available off the app all year round. I personally used the app last year to visit Tanganyika Wildlife Park for no entry cost as a part of my family. It’s a wonderful example of the Kansas Government supporting citizens’ desires to see more of our wonderful state.
One of the most wonderful things about living in this great state of ours is the incredible natural scenery that we have to offer. There are so many different trails, campgrounds, plus state and county parks that Kansas has to offer that I wouldn’t be surprised if a couple were hiding right in plain sight. Harvey County West Park is a prime example of this. While it may not be the largest and most illustrious park in Kansas, it offers a quiet tranquility unrivaled by many other lakes. Or how about Lake Afton? There are so many natural land areas ready for exploration. All it takes is a short trip away.
Many of you may be wondering, why are you talking about parks and camping the week after Memorial weekend. Well, if you’re like me, you can’t get enough of the outdoors anyhow. Besides, as Kansans, we live off the land, and our homes are built upon it, why shouldn’t we continuously find ways to explore it? With that being said, I know it’s easy to get caught up in all the home improvement, car improvement, and overall business that the summer seems to generate from us. Take some time to relax, and explore this lovely place we call home.
