ss MSDC: Economic Development in Saline County, Missouri

Golfing at Stonehedge
Performance of 'Cats' at Lyceum Theatre
Skateboarder doing a trick in local Skatepark
Young T-ball player at Indian Foothills Park
Hadley Wiskur riding the bull 'Steve McQueen' Photo Use Courtesy of Eric Krump and Marshall Democrat News
Exercise class at local YMCA
Senior exercise routine at YMCA

Recreation

Spend a few days in our county and you'll understand why our citizens have a zest for life. Activities in the area are as varied as the four seasons we enjoy.

Walk through parks filled with young and old alike enjoying golf, basketball, baseball, volleyball and tennis. Swim in one of our area community pools. Enjoy free concerts in the park on warm summer nights or, when the snow flies, take a chance on the steep winding hills which provide excellent sledding.

Many people visit Saline County to take advantage of the bountiful hunting. Our farms and wildlife reserves are brimming with deer, quail, wild turkey and waterfowl. The lakes and ponds in the area hold an abundance of largemouth bass, catfish and crappie.

Small Town, Big Difference

Living in Saline County gives one the best of both worlds: the fun and excitement of an engaged and diverse community, and the peace, rest, and beauty of small town and country living. Whether you want to be completely involved in local events, activities, and politics, or you just want to relax and enjoy the gorgeous sunsets from the porch, you can find your balance in Saline County.

Recently, we have noticed that some of our graduates, after having lived all over the world, are making their way back to the area to call Saline County home once more. In fact, we are finding that an increased number of our citizens are people who have left large cities for a quieter (but no less engaging) style of living!

You see, it isn't just the clean air, the remarkable clear skies, or the beautiful country--it's something more: it's the smile and wave you exchange with people as you drive down Odell Avenue, a handshake (or high-five!) and catching up after buying locally crafted goods at a locally owned store, and sitting on the porch to watch the storm roll in. And the same distance that used to be a tedious commute to work is now an opportunity to explore a whole different town, a trip to a local winery, a beautiful fishing and hunting spot, or a day at the races--slow things down, and get more for your time!

In sum, if you currently live in a big city and are looking to make a change, Saline County is the place for you. Turn down the chaos, rush, and vexation and discover some contentment, compassion, and relaxation. Balance, not boredom; that's what you'll find here, and we're convinced that once you see it, you'll have more than enough reason to stay.

Jim The Wonder Dog

Saline County is also the home of the world-famous Jim The Wonder Dog. Jim lived in the 1920s and '30s and was a marvellous and extremely intelligent hunting dog, responding to many different languages and distinguishing between colors despite dogs being color-blind. His owner, Samuel VanArsdale, took Jim around the world to be viewed by scientists, veterinarians, and academicians, all stunned by Jims abilities. A park dedicated to Jim now sits where his home, the Ruff Hotel, once stood. More information about Jim can be viewed at www.jimthewonderdog.com.

Things To Do

There are more events and passtimes in Saline County than we could possibly list here. Below are just a few of the many recreational activities, events, facilities, and modes of entertainment people come to Saline County to enjoy. To see upcoming events and activities, please visit the "Calendar" section at www.visitmarshallmo.com




Photo Index

Golfing at Indian Foothills Golf Course. Courtesy of Jeff Stubblefield and Marshall Parks and Recreation

Lyceum Theatre presentation of 'Cats.' Courtesy of Jacky Buckley and Lyceum Theatre

A skateboarder performing tricks at the local skatepark. Courtesy of Jeff Stubblefield and Marshall Parks and Recreation

A happy T-Ball player at Indian Foothills. Courtesy of Jeff Stubblefield and Marshall Parks and Recreation

Hadley Wiskur riding 'Steve McQueen' at Sweet Springs Rodeo. Courtesy of Eric Krump and Marshall Democrat News

Exercises at Salt Fork YMCA. Courtesy of Suzanne Smith and Salt Fork YMCA

Senior Aerobics at Salt Fork YMCA. Courtesy of Suzanne Smith and Salt Fork YMCA