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For the longest time, I would enjoy visiting my grandma in Hastings every summer for a multitude of reasons. These would include spending all afternoon at Champions (YMCA), having Blizzards from Dairy Queen, and enjoying cable television. Believe it or not, in Omaha, I would not get a place like Champions, fast food ice cream, or anything more than local channels or even basic cable. At any rate, I liked visiting Hastings for those reasons, but I especially loved visiting in July for one specific reason: July Jamboree.

July Jamboree, for those of you who do not know, is an annual event taking place at Allen’s Superstore each July. For about a week the store is filled with sales, special events, and even free samples. Started in 1980, the jamboree is in its 32nd year and is attracting a large crowd, from young chubby ten-year-old boys (that was me) to elderly women (that was – and still is – my grandma). I can see why July Jamboree is such an irresistible draw since there is something for everyone to enjoy. Let’s discuss, shall we?

Throughout the week of July Jamboree, there are a multitude of options for everyone. First, there are special sales every day. Allen’s releases great coupons specific to each day of the event. So, you can get your shopping done and have fun all at the same time. Second, there are special events for everyone. For the kids, there are games and prizes for which to play and register. For adults, there is a ‘Spin-N-Win’ prize truck from the Nebraska Lottery. For the less technologically savvy, there are camera and technology clinics to assist in your electronic needs. If no option suits you, then maybe registering for many prizes around the store would be the best choice before enjoying a meal from Allen’s famous lunch wagon. …which brings me to the final topic of discussion: Free samples. The ten-year-old me is jumping up and down right now because who doesn’t love free samples?! Anyway, Allen’s always takes pride in providing free samples from Roberts, Blue Bunny, Keebler, and more. Heck, they even send the Keebler elf. He’s a busy guy, you know. So, as you can see, Allen’s has options for everyone during their July Jamboree. What is your favorite part?

If you missed out on July Jamboree this year, definitely check it out a year from now. Plus, as we continually discuss, it is all what you make it. Being an active consumer requires continual effort of seeking enjoyment and entertainment in your community. Noticing the details definitely helps in this process. Seeing Allen’s advertisement in newspapers and on television is an example. We’ll talk more about details next time.

 

About the author: Josh Wooster

I was born and raised in Omaha, Nebraska, where I attended Millard West High School. I chose Hastings College because it gave students personal attention, extracurricular options, and music ensembles better than those of other colleges in the state. I am currently the leader of 1-2-5, the men’s a-cappella singing ensemble, while also being a part of the Hastings College Choir and Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia, the men’s music fraternity. Other commitments include being an intern for the Hastings Chamber of Commerce and membership in the Student Environmental Action Coalition and Society for Collegiate Journalists. “Free time” for me involves arranging music for 1-2-5, working at the Lochland Country Club, and searching for a job. I am a jovial spirit with a diligent attitude towards work, and a keen eye for detail. I hope to stick around Hastings after college to work and give back to the city and college that have offered me so much.