Businesses, shoppers gear up for "$25 on 25th"

Sedalia business owners and shoppers alike are lauding the “Spend $25 on the 25th” Sedalia stimulus program.

The campaign, which kicked off in July, urges Sedalia-area shoppers to spend an extra $25 at local businesses on the 25th day of each month to help revitalize the community’s economy. 

Jim Aubrey, owner of North 65 Cafe, offered 10 percent off the total ticket price at his restaurant during the inaugural “Spend $25 on the 25th” day in July. While Aubrey didn’t do a head count, he said he did see an increase in customers on July 25.

“I saw a few new faces,” he said, “and a lot of our regulars.”

Aubrey said he believes the incentive program played a part in the customer increase.

“I’m sure our regulars probably decided they would eat here because of the discount,” he said.

Vicki Abey, owner of LeMaire’s Cajun Catfish and Seafood House, offered two all-you-can-eat dinners for $25 in July. Abey said the event was so successful she plans to continue it this month.

“It was great,” Abey said. “Everyone seemed to enjoy being able to order the special.”

Abey personally enjoyed the program as well, saying she “almost killed herself” perusing the paper for good deals.

“I am really enjoying it and looking forward to the next one,” she said, “but it isn’t just for businesses because it gives everyone an opportunity to enjoy the day.”

Shirley Neff entered The Sedalia Democrat’s “Spend $25 on the 25th” contest and was chosen as a winner. Her prize is a $25 voucher to be used at a local business on Aug. 25. Neff, benevolent director of Open Door Ministries, said she planned to use her prize to thank her volunteer receptionists.

“Some of them (receptionists) have been with me for seven or eight years,” Neff said. “I appreciate them so much.”

Neff plans to purchase a plant from Moore’s Greenhouse to place on the receptionists’ desk.

Sedalia resident Barbara Schulz was also chosen as a winner. Originally, Schulz said she planned to purchase flowers for her garden from Moore’s Greenhouse.

“Spending my $25 at Moore’s Greenhouse would give two boosts,” Schulz said. “One for Sedalia’s economy and one for my garden.” 

But, Schulz said she got impatient and has already purchased mums for her flower gardens. Now, Schulz says she may use her voucher to purchase something from McLaughlin’s gift department.

“I don’t know what I would get, but looking is half the fun,” she said. “But, I may still buy flowers because you can never have too many.”

Both Schulz and Neff said they are fans of the local stimulus program.

“It is a wonderful idea,” Shulz said, “and a fun community event.”