Dateline: March 31, 2005

CC judging contest boosts businesses

The 24th annual Clarendon College Judging Contest is slated for Saturday, April 2; and with the more than 2200 high school FFA and 4-H students from across the Texas Panhandle an economic boom is expected.

In fact, the Best Western Hotel is booked solid for April 1.

“Anytime we’re full it’s good,” said Manager Steve Hall.  “We will do our best to treat our guests special and make them feel welcome. We want them to enjoy their stay so they will say good things about Clarendon.”

Hall said more people staying in Clarendon means more people will eat here and spend money in the town.

“It is important we keep every dollar possible circulating in the local economy,” he said.

“This event is good for both the college and our town,” said Frank Hommel, owner of “Sam Hill” Pit BBQ. “Like many other community establishments, we usually do three times the business than we do during a normal day.”

Karen Spruell, manager of Dairy Queen, agreed.

“The economic impact is nice. Within five to six hours we achieve one of our bigger sale days.”

Spruell said increased sales during the contest usually begin at 12:30 p.m., and Dairy Queen will be ready.

“We will have enough staff, enough food and expect no problems,” she said. “We will be extremely busy, and very happy.”

The event will also have an impact on Clarendon College. Johnny Treichel, Clarendon College livestock and meats judging coach, said the event is the biggest recruiting tool for the college.

“This is the only time each year the college has this many potential students on campus,” he said. “And we are pleased to have such positive support from the community.”