Work with what you’ve got

Endless miles of open highway . . . long stretches when the only vehicle you can see is the one you’re driving. The scenery is interesting, it may even be spectacular – for an hour – and then the tedium sets in.

The mileposts flash by but it doesn’t feel like you’re getting any closer to your destination. You need a restroom and there isn’t a town, a rest area or even a tree in sight.Your legs are cramping up and the music on your iPod is boring. Of course, this doesn’t really matter because your traveling companion’s snores have been drowning it out for the past 100 miles.

But wait, what’s that sign? Is there hope? Could it be? Restrooms . . .cold drinks . . ice cream?

Even smack in the middle of nowhere, when the economy has tanked and predictions of failure abound, savvy entrepreneurs and communities who pay attention to the needs of visitors can succeed.

Both Wall Drug and Little America began in the 1930s and now, 70+ years later, they remain iconic pit stops.

Places to use the restroom, refill the gas tank, get something to eat and drink and spend a little time (and money). Sometimes it’s as simple as identifying a need and inviting people to let you serve them. What are the opportunities for your town? Maybe you aren’t the primary destination, but can you be the most outstanding pit stop along their route?

ABSOLUTELY – what are you waiting for?