A publication of the Manhattan Area Chamber of CommerceFebruary 2015, Volume 11, Issue 2, www.manhattan.org

Contact us:501 Poyntz Avenue

Manhattan, KS, 66502-6005785-776-8829 phone785-776-0679 fax

chamber@manhattan.org www.manhattan.org

TDD Kansas Relay Center: 800-766-3777

Connect with theManhattan Area

Chamber ofCommerce through

Social Media.

2015 Leaders’ Retreat Wrap UpIn mid-January, over 250 business lead-ers from Junction City, Manhattan,Wamego, Geary, Pottawatomie, and RileyCounty came together for the annual2015 Regional Leaders Retreat. Themain purpose of the Regional Leaders’Retreat is to strategize and conceptual-ize, as a region, how we can cometogether to improve the overall qualityof place and life. The focus of this year’sretreat was on collaborating together toincrease employment opportunities byretaining the businesses we have andattracting target industries to the region.

The Chamber would like tothank our Platinum sponsor,Sink, Gordon & Associates.

The two day retreat was once againfacilitated by Courtney Dunbar, theeconomic development leader forOlsson Associates. Based on the out-comes from last year’s retreat, 5 TargetAdvisory Groups (TAGs) came togetherthroughout 2014 to discuss and plan thedifferent ways our region can worktoward succeeding together. Presentersincluded: Matt Crocker, President andChief Operating Officer from Steel &Pipe Supply Company, speaking on behalfof the Asset Development TAG; NeilFisher, Vice President and ChiefOperating Officer from KBSConstructors, speaking on behalf of theWorkforce TAG; Merl Page, CityManager of the City of Wamego, andStephanie Watts, Transportation

Planner fromthe Flint HillsMetropolitanPlanningOrganization,both speakingon behalf of theRegional Transportation TAG; JimGordon, Certified Public Accountantfrom Sink, Gordon & Associates, speak-ing on behalf of the Branding andMarketing TAG; and Judd Liebau,Community Bank President fromINTRUST Bank, speaking on behalf ofthe Regionalism in Practice TAG.Additional speakers include Peter VanKuren, Director from the ManhattanRegional Airport, who gave an update onContinued on page 3

Monday, February 9, 20153:30 pm - 5:30 pm

Geary County Convention Center – Marriott Courtyard310 Hammons Drive, Junction City 66441

The upcoming Community Listening Session is the next phase of theArmy Force Structure and Stationing Decision process. This processwill determine which Army bases will lose soldiers due to the2013 Budget Control Act also known as the Sequester. TheArmy has already reduced Army strength from 570,000 to490,000, and the Army is still in the process of implement-ing this reduction. The First Infantry Division has alreadyshut down two Brigades; one located on Fort Campbelland another at Fort Leonard Wood and is in the process ofclosing the Fourth Infantry Brigade Combat Team on FortRiley. The upcoming Listening Session will pinpoint how totrim the Army further, down to 450,000 or 420,000troops. The possibility of losing the First InfantryDivision is a real possibility in this scenario.

Fort Riley CommunityListening Session

Individual seats nowon sale for the

Chamber’s 90thAnnual Meeting &

Banquet

Friday, February 20, 2015Manhattan Conference Center

5:45pm

The Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce 90th Annual Meeting and Banquet willbe held Friday, February 20, 2015 at the Manhattan Conference Center. The eveningwill begin with a cocktail hour at 5:45pm followed by dinner and presentations at7:00pm.

Beginning Monday, February 2nd, individual seating may be purchased for $65 each if a Chamber member and $85 each for a non-member. Tickets will be available on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Contact Laura Anderson at laura@manhattan.org or call the Chamber at 776-8829for more information

The mission of the Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce is to foster a changing environment for business success that enhances the quality of life in our region. We market the region, advocate for business, and provide services to our members and customers.

Are you interested in being a member of the Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce? Give Kim a call at 776-8829 for more information.

This is a publication of the Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce – all advertising is the responsibilityof The Manhattan Mercury. To place an ad or for more information, call Samantha Fosha at 776-2200,or classdisplay@themercury.com.

Platinum Sponsor

Chamber’s 90th Annual Meeting and BanquetThank you to the following event sponsors:

Prepay for Business AfterHours and save $$$

These laminated passports are great for businessesthat regularly send representatives to Business AfterHours. Monthly checks or expense reimbursementsare eliminated. And, best of all, at $48 each you saveup to $72 annually over the usual $5-10 donation.

Passports are not specific to one person, so multiplepeople may enter on one passport. An RSVP is stillrequested. Interested? Please contact Laura Andersonat laura@manhattan.org or call the Chamber office at776-8829.

Chamber Fact.Do business with other members! View the Manhattan Chamber membership directory online at www.manhattanchamber.org (Business Directory) and use it purchasing decisions. Developing business to business relationships within the membership strengthens everyone’s bottom line.

Gold Level Table Sponsor

Silver Level Table Sponsor

Aggieville Business Association BA designs, LLC Bluemont Hotel Blueville Nursery, Inc. Carpet Cleanse Chiropractic Family Health CenterThe Daily Union Directorate of Morale, Welfare & Recreation ESB Financial Express Employment Professionals Flint Hills Discovery Center Four Points by Sheraton Greater Manhattan Community FoundationHy-Vee KBS Constructors, Inc. LSB Bank

Manhattan Surgical Hospital Merry Maids Networks PlusNew Boston Creative Group Olsson Associates The Phone Connection Voice NetworksPizza Hut Pottawatomie County Economic Development Corporation Rockhill Real Estate Group Schultz Construction, Inc ServiceMaster Restore Sink, Gordon & Associates LLP Public Accountants Stoneybrook Retirement CenterUMB BankVarney & Associates, CPA

Action Pact Design Arthur-Green, LLP Bartlett & West, Inc. Bayer Construction Co. BG Consultants Central National BankCommerce Bank - Manhattan Corvias Military Living Flint Hills Job Corps CenterHi-Tech Interiors INTRUST Bank The Kansas Farm Bureau Kansas State Bank K-State College of Business Administration

KSU President's Office Landmark National Bank Manhattan Area Technical College Mercy Regional Health Center Realty Executives Weis Real Estate Co. Scott Rice Office Works SMH Consultants The Trust Company Veterinary Health Center at Kansas State UniversityWestar Energy

Page 2 Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce Little Apple® Business Review February 2015

Bronze Sponsors

Copper Sponsors

Please join us for Business After Hours in February!

Wednesday, February 11th 5:30 – 7:00 pm

Leonardville State Bank2401 N. Seth Childs Road

Reservations can be made online at www.manhattancham-ber.org, by emailing chamber@manhattan.org or call 776-8829.

Hosted by:

February 2015 Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce Little Apple® Business Review Page 3

Upcoming Chamber Events

To make a reservation for an upcoming event, pleasecall the Chamber at 776-8829. Please join us asyour time allows.

February 6 Ribbon Cutting - Accord Hospice of Manhattan3:30 pm3250 Kimball Avenue

February 11 Business After Hours5:30 – 7:00 pmLSB Bank

February 20 90th Annual Meeting & Banquet5:45 pmManhattan Conference Center

February 24 Member Orientation7:45 – 9:30 amChamber Boardroom

February 28 Manhattan Young ProfessionalsHabitat for Humanity Build Site

March 10 Ribbon Cutting - AsterHouse Design LLC4:00 pm7300 Anderson Avenue

March 11 Businesses After Hours5:30 – 7:00 pmFour Points by Sheraton

March 19 Good Morning Manhattan7:15 am – 8:30 amManhattan Country Club

March 24 Morning Mingle7:45 am – 9:00 am

March 26 Manhattan Young Professionals11:30 amDr. Ian Connole, K-State Athletic’s Director of Sport Psychology

March 26 Ribbon Cutting - JNT Company LLC4:30 pm616 Fort Riley Boulevard

*All dates and times are subject to change.

Continued from page 1

the status of commercial airservice and the expansion ofthe airport terminal, andBrigadier General EricWesley, DeputyCommanding General(Support) and Acting SeniorCommander of Fort Riley,who spoke to the generalsession about the upcomingFebruary 9th ListeningSession in Junction City.

Spread throughout the twodays of sessions was theopportunity for all retreatattendees to participate in anew text message-basedpolling system. Each partici-pant was asked several ques-

tions at the end of each pres-entation which reflected eachTAG’s ability to implementtheir plan to move forward.At the end of the sessioneach table had a chance toselect a report-out leaderwho shared the results of around-table discussion withthe larger group. These dis-cussions will be deliberatedin more detail by the partici-pating Chambers ofCommerce Board ofDirectors. You can find moreinformation, including speakerpresentations and the pollresults from the 2015Regional Leaders’ Retreat, byvisiting the Manhattan AreaChamber website atwww.manhattan.org. Select

the Events & Programs taband choose Regional Leader’sRetreat.

Sponsors for the eventinclude: Sink, Gordon& Associates,INTRUST Bank,Hawley Printing, Hi-Tech Interiors,Bruce McMillanArchitects, BayerConstruction, andFlint Hills aTa Bus.Thank you for yoursponsorship!

Thank you to the following members of the ChamberChampions and Chamber Diplomats for volunteering to help with registration at the January Good Morning

Manhattan: Tony Parker, UMB Bank and Sean Morgan, Farmers Insurance.

2015 Leaders’ Retreat Wrap Up

Since our January newsletter,these businesses have reinvestedtheir investments in theChamber. The Board ofDirectors and staff thank thesebusinesses for their continuingsupport of the Chamber.

Over 50 yearsAl Langton Insurance, Inc.Charlson & Wilson Bonded Abstracters, Inc.Commerce Bank - ManhattanDave GrossKellstrom PharmacyLandmark National BankManhattan BroadcastingPepsi Cola of ManhattanSchwab EatonSeaton Publishing Co., Inc.Steel & Pipe Supply Company

41 to 50 YearsBurnett AutomotiveCountryside of Manhattan, Inc.Dental Health GroupKansas Lumber HomestoreManhattan Eye CareSchram Chrysler Dodge Jeep, Inc.The MASTER TeacherWal-Mart

31 to 40 YearsAIB InternationalBarry’s Drug CenterBG ConsultantsBHS Construction, Inc.Big Lakes Development CenterCentury Business Systems, Inc.DPRA Incorporatedep Print SourceFour Points by SheratonG & A Real Estate, Inc.Jon Murdock, Inc.K-State Alumni AssociationPawnee Mental Health ServicesPop’s Collectables

Richard B. HayterThe EyeDoctors OptometristsThe Simmons CompanyWashington Dance Studio, Inc.Waters True Value

21 to 30 YearsAggieville Business AssociationAmerican Pest Management, Inc.Arthur-Green, LLPBayer Construction Company, Inc.Bill MuirBlue Cross - Blue Shield of KansasBlueville Nursery, Inc.Campus Hair StylingCardinal Insurance-ManhattanCarpet One of Manhattan, Inc.Cash Lumber and HardwareChiropractic Family Health CenterContinental MillsD & R Construction, Inc.D.J. Carpenter Building SystemsDick Edwards Ford Lincoln Mercury, Inc.DK SpecialtiesDr. Clark DannerDunne’s PharmacyEastside & Westside MarketsEnergy Center - Manhattan PoolFlint Hills Job Corps CenterFraternal Order of Police Riley Co. Lodge #17, Inc.Frontier Farm CreditHawley Printing Service – Sir SpeedyHeartland Works/Manhattan Workforce CenterHi-Tech Interiors, Inc.Homecare and HospiceHorizon Holdings, Inc.K-State AthleticsK-State Federal Credit UnionKansas State BankKansas State University FoundationKeating & AssociatesKnopp. Bannister & Nolting, P.A.Konza United WayKSU IC

Larson Construction, Inc.LDF Food Group, Inc.Manhattan Are Technical CollegeManhattan Christian CollegeManhattan Wrecker Service, Inc.McCullough Development, Inc.Meadowlark HillsMercy Regional Health CenterMorrison, Frost, Olsen, Irvine & Schartz, LLPOrthopaedic & Sports Medicine CenterPizza HutR.M. Baril General ContractorsRedbud EstatesSabatka Financial Advisory Services, Inc.Shilling Construction Co., Inc.Shop Quick StoresStickel CleanersSunflower BankThe Wareham CompanyVarney & Associates, CPAs, LLCVia Christi Village Manhattan, Inc.Walters-Morgan Construction, Inc.Waste Management

15 to 20 YearsALFAC–Linda JonesCapitol Federal Savings BankEagle CommunicationsFirestone Complete Auto CareLittle Apple Hotel Partners LLCSalina Media GroupSmall Business Development CenterUFM Community Learning Center

10 to 14 YearsAction Pact Holding, LLCAlternative Healthcare CenterBartlett & West, Inc.Capitol Federal Savings BankFlint Hills Beverage, LLCRobert N. Haines

5 to 9 yearsChristian & Associates Real EstateFlint Hills AreaTransportation AgencyG. Thomas JewelersKansas FFA Foundation, Inc.MAMTC

StarbucksVonFeldt, Bauer & VonFeldt, CPA’s

1 to 4 yearsCommercial Real Estate ServicesCragg’s Remodeling LLCHeartland Hearing Care CentersK & M Holdings Inc.Mercy Regional Home MedicalServicesScott Rice Office WorksTrinium, Inc.Vern Swanson

KDK Engineering LLC Darren Reynolds, Principal PO Box 929Ph (785) 560-5786www.kdk-engineering.comKDK Engineering is foundedwith the mission of providingquality services on schedule andin an economic manner. The firmwill provide innovative solutionsfor the structural engineeringneeds of our community, utiliz-ing experience, knowledge, andthe latest technologies of theindustry. Our focus is to providestructural engineering servicesfor commercial buildings andrelated structures, forensicanalysis of existing structures,and CAD services.

AJ's NY Pizzeria Adam Peyton, Owner 301 Poyntz Avenue Ph (785) 587-0700www.ajsnypizza.comWe use an authentic New YorkItalian recipe. It was given to usby the Mastandos of Brooklyn,who has used this in their pizze-ria for over 50 years. To accountfor the differences between theBig Apple and the Little Apple,we have worked closely withTom Lehmann “the DoughDoctor” and the AIBInternational. Tom is an authori-

ty and author in the pizza indus-try and a Manhattan, Kansas res-ident. He has been an invaluableresource in our quest to bringyou the best NY style slice out-side of NYC. To honor thisrecipe and the people involved,we use only the finest ingredi-ents.

David KrellerPO Box 416Ph (785) 539-6334

Bella's Italian Restaurant Song Hee Lee, Owner 3033 Anderson Avenue Ph (785) 320-6707The best in Italian cuisine andfamily owned. Contact Bella’sItalian Restaurant for yourcatering needs today. Providingdine in or carry out service

Ronald W. Trewyn KSU President's Office 006 Anderson Hall Ph (785) 532-6227www.k-state.edu

NAPA Auto & Truck Partsof Manhattan Broc Yakel, Owner 719 Fort Riley Boulevard Ph (785) 776-4809Fx (785) 776-7648www.napaonline.comNAPA of Manhattan sells retail& wholesale parts to the auto-motive, truck and agriculturalindustries in the greaterManhattan area. This store isnow under new ownership andmanagement as of July 1, 2014.We are the only locally ownedsmall business parts store inManhattan - all others are cor-porate owned. We strive toprovide an excellent customerexperience and look forward tobecoming an active part of thecommunity for many years tocome.

ReinvestingReinvestingThank you forThank you forThank you forPage 4 Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce Little Apple® Business Review February 2015

Ways to GO GREEN ATWORK right now!Turn off all electrical

appliances (computers, lights,etc.) when not in use.

The travel sector is an integral part of the Kansaseconomy contributing more than $9 billion inexpenditures and sustaining over 90,000 jobs.Tourism Economics, an Oxford EconomicsCompany, conducted an economic impact study oftourism in Kansas using the most current datafrom 2013. The report enables Kansas to quantify,track and compare the travel and tourisms impor-tance for Kansas vitality. According to the Tourism Economics study:

• Kansas hosted 33.7 million travelers in 2013. Themajority of the travelers were day travelers (60%).

• While representing only 40% of all trips, overnight travelers spending accounts for nearly 75% of all traveler spending, generating $4.5 billion.

Continued on page 2

February 2015Volume 15, Issue 2A publication of the

ManhattanConvention &Visitors Bureau

Tourism Economic Impact Figures Released

Peace, Love, PlungeCome join the fun and freezing on Saturday, Feb. 21, 2015for the annual Polar Plunge and 5K Run benefiting SpecialOlympics. Join the festivities at Tuttle Creek Swim Beach at9:30 a.m. with registration, 10:30 a.m. the Polar Strut 5K,11:30a.m. Opening Ceremonies and at NOON – thePLUNGE! (It’s warmer at noon – don’t you know!)

Questions - Contact Luke Schulte, schultel@ksso.org,620-408-4450, www.plungeks.org/plunge/manhattan

SAVE THE DATEMake plans for May 2 – 3, 2015 to celebrate theKansas Sampler in nearby Wamego.

Wamego will once again be the site of the Kansas SamplerFestival in May. The Kansas Sampler is celebrating 26 yearsof providing the public a sample of all there is to see, do,hear, taste, buy and experience in the great state of Kansas!Last year – Wamego welcomed over 11,700 curious visitorsto Sampler – make plans to help break this record!

The Kansas Sampler Festival is designed to bring communi-ties and attractions from all over the state together tomake it easy for the public to discover day trip possibilities.Whether you are looking for hiking trails, historic sites, nat-ural landmarks, unique restaurants, off-the-beaten trackeateries, architectural gems, hole-in-wall performing centers,artists-at-work, specialty shops, or have-to-be-there Kansasevents, this festival is for you!

Expect tent after tent of exhibitors placed in geographicalregions promoting tourism attractions. Food booths andentertainment stages are placed around the grounds. Therewill be little pockets of surprises such as a row of historicalperformers, someone on a stump asking Kansas questions,artists at work, a petting zoo, blacksmith demonstrationsand who knows what else.

To keep up to date on the latest happenings about theKansas Sampler go to:www.kansassamplerfestival.com.

Tourism Economic Impact Figures ReleasedContinued from page 1

• On average, overnight travelers spent $332 in Kansas during their trip.

• Tourism spending directly supported 61,374 jobs in Kansas in 2013.

• Travel generated $4.5 billion in state GDP in 2013, representing 3.1% of the total Kansas economy.

• The industry that has the largest economic contribution from traveler spending is the Lodging industry closely followed by F&B (restaurants and bars)

• The tourism sector supported 91,265 jobs in 2013.

• Traveler supported employment represents 5.2% of all employment in the State of Kansas.

• Travel is an employment intensive industry directly supporting nearly 23,150 jobs in the food and beverage industry.

• Travel spending supported a total of more than 12,000 jobs in recreation and entertainment.

For a complete review of this study go to www.travelks.com/industry/research-reports/economic-impact/

Join the Flint Hills Volunteer Center at the 4th Annual Father-Daughter Sweetheart Dance

Sunday February 22nd, 2015 from 2-4pmat the Manhattan Country Club

$15 for fathers / $10 for daughters ages 3-12Buy tickets at the Flint Hills Volunteer Center office433 Houston St. & Manhattan Town Center MallFor more information call 785-776-7787

Get dolled up and dance the afternoon away!

Photo prop stations, drinks and sweets will be provided to all ofthose in attendance.

www.flinthillsvolunteercenter.com/father-daughter-sweet-heart-dance/

CONNECT WITH US!Visit Manhattan Kansas

@meetnmanhattan

Manhattan CVB

Visit Manhattan

Look who is meeting in Manhattan!Conferences:• Kansas Gang Investigators Association 2/9-12, Est. Attendance: 150, $94,200

• Kansas Lions District Convention 2/20-21, Est. Attendance: 150, $47,100

• Manhattan Christian College - Women’s World 2/27-28,Est. Attendance: 650, $204,100

• KS Department of Ag Farmers’ Market Conference 2/28-3/1Est. Attendance: 200, $94,200

Speak up for Fort RileyFt. Riley helps to make Manhattan and the entire region vibrant. It isimportant for the tourism and hospitality industry to be present at theupcoming Army listening session:

3:30 – Monday, February 9thGeary Co. Convention Center

310 Hammon Dr.

The future of Ft. Riley will be the topic of discussion at this community listening session.The session will allow the Department of Army leaders to hear our community concernsabout the potential force structure and stationing decisions. This is your chance to makeyour voice heard!

To find out more about Ft. Riley and this important meeting visit www.riley.army.mil

See what’s new at the Flint Hills Discovery Center

The Flint Hills Discovery Center is the perfect place for a February date! There is alwayssomething new to see and experience when you visit. Don’t miss these great temporaryexhibits!

K is for Kansas • January 24, 2015-March 22, 2015Discover the magnificent state of Kansas with the exhibition, K is for Kansas: ExploringKansas from A to Z. Younger visitors and their families can discover who Kansans arewith a special Kansas alphabet representing the countless people, places, things, plants andanimals which make our state a special place. Our alphabet includes the state symbolsthat all Kansas children study along with fun and curious facts about the state and storieswhich are often overlooked.

Save the Last Dance • February 14, 2015-May 17, 2015The dance of North American grassland grouse, from the impressive courtship of prairie-chickens to the bizarre behaviors of sage-grouse, are known to nature lovers as one of themost impressive wildlife displays in North America. Save the Last Dance shares images byaward- winning photographer, Noppaadol Paothong, from his dazzling book, Save the LastDance—A Story of North American Grassland Grouse. The exhibition fosters knowledgeand understanding of these spectacular birds and their diminishing habitats so future gen-erations, too, can marvel at their grace and beauty.

You “Otter” Name the newresident at Sunset Zoo! Sunset Zoo has wel-comed a new resi-dent, a seven-year-old,female Asian smallclawed otter. She willbe making Manhattan’sSunset Zoo her homewith Bagus, an eleven-year-old male otter,already on exhibit.However, the newotter does not have aname!

The new otter comesto The Little Apple®from Minnesota Zoo,and is currentlynameless. Manhattanand surrounding community members are encouraged tohelp name the new addition through an online voting con-test at www.SunsetZoo.com/Otters. Cast your votesoon as the contest ends at 11:59 p.m. on Valentine’s Day,February 14, 2015.

Scott Shoemaker, Sunset Zoo director says, “Otters are verysocial animals, making otters quite popular among Zoo guests.The Manhattan community will love our new addition, and thisspecies is great to be exhibited in groups.”

Karen Hibbard, Directorkaren@manhattan.org

Marcia Rozell, Tourism SalesManagermarcia@manhattan.org

Luke Wiggins, Convention SalesManagerluke@manhattan.org

Kendra Dekat, AdministrativeAssistant/ Service Coordinatorkendra@manhattan.org

Manhattan Convention & Visitors Bureau Staff

February 201519 Martin Luther King, Jr

Day CelebrationManhattan Town Center785-539-3500

22 McCain Performance Series: Shatner's WorldMcCain Auditorium, K-State7:30 PM785-532-6428

22 Film Screening: Spies of MississippiBeach Museum of Art, K-State7:00 PM785-532-7718

22-25 Winter Sidewalk SalesManhattan Town Center785-539-3500

23-24 Circle Mirror TransformationManhattan Arts Center7:30-9:30 PM785-537-4420

24 K-State Men's Basketballv. Oklahoma StateBramlage Coliseum11:00 AM800-221-2287

24-March 22 K is for KansasFlint Hills Discovery Center785-587-2726

27 K-State Men's Basketball v. West VirginiaBramlage Coliseum6:00 PM800-221-2287

27-2/5 Klicks for Kids Photo DisplayManhattan Town Center785-539-3500

28 K-State Women's Basketball v. Oklahoma StateBramlage Coliseum7:00 PM800-221-2287

29 Rationed Food and Recipes Used During the DepressionFlint Hills Discovery Center7:00 PM785-587-2726

29 McCain PerformanceSeries: Dancing Pros LiveMcCain Auditorium, K-State8:00 PM785-532-6428

30 Evening of Jazz with Wayne GoinsManhattan Arts Center7:30-9:30 PM785-537-4420

30 Hale Library Concert Series: A Century of Gail KubikHemisphere Room, KSU Hale Library7:30-10:00 PM785-532-7442

Manhattan Convention & Visitors Bureau501 Poyntz Avenue Manhattan, KS 66502(785) 776-8829 • (785) 776-0679 fax

Upcoming Conferences, Sports and Special Events in The Little Apple®

Brad Everett, Chair, HotelNeil Farmer, BusinessJennifer Fritchen, HotelEvan Grier, DiningBernie Haney, Youth/SportsTodd Holmberg, Entertainment/KSU

Meredith McKee, HotelTerry Olson, RetailPenny Seften, Entertainment

Ben Sigle, AttractionJeff Wolfe, Meeting Planner/ KSU

Ex-Officio MembersEddie Estes, City of Manhattan

Lyle Butler, Chamber President

Karen McCulloh, City Commissioner

Manhattan CVB Steering Committee

February ...............................Anticipated Attendance NumbersConferences/Meetings/Reunions9 Kansas Gang Investigators Association Annual Conference.......15020 Riley County Bar Association Luncheon...........................................3020 Kansas Lions District Convention....................................................15023 Kansas Bar Association Slam Dunk Conference28 Kansas Department of Agriculture Farmers'

Market Conference ..............................................................................200

Sporting Events7 Little Apple Basketball Tournaments ................................................60014 Run 4 Love Running Event .................................................................100

Special Events27 Manhattan Christian College Woman's World ..............................650

CVB Mission Statement: To increase to local area economy by attracting visitors.

It’s 2A time! March 11-14, Manhattan will be hostto High School Basketball Champions chasing the State Title.If you are interested in volunteering to sell tickets, programsand t-shirts, contact Kendra Dekat, CVB ServiceCoordinator at Kendra@manhattan.org to secure the besttime for you to volunteer.

Manhattan to Participatewith TIAK’s Day on the HillThe Travel Industry of Kansas (TIAK) will host their Day on the Hill on Wednesday,February 11th. Presentations will be made to Kansas’ elected officials on the EconomicImpact of Kansas Tourism, presenting the findings of the Tourism Satellite Account forCalendar year 2013 to both the Senate and House Commerce Committees.

An evening reception for all legislators will be held at the Ramada Convention Center inTopeka showcasing the regions of Kansas and the unique attractions Kansas has to offer.Manhattan will be represented by Karen Hibbard, CVB Director, Luke Wiggins,Convention Sales and Marcia Rozell, Tourism Sales. The Flint Hills Tourism Coalition,

which Manhattan CVB is a charter member,will be hosting a table for the evening recep-tion showcasing the Flint Hills DiscoveryCenter, the Flint Hills Quilt Trail, Flint HillsVacations, Flint Hills artists, presented by JayNelson, owner of Strecker-Nelson ArtGallery with music provided by AnneWilson, Flint Hills musician.

February 2015 Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce Little Apple® Business Review Page 9

Member Orientation: You Belong! What's Next?

Now that you belong, it's time to learn more about thevalue the Chamber has to offer you and your business.

What: Member Orientation: You Belong! What's Next?When:Tuesday, February 24, 2015 Time: 7:45 am – Doors Open & Coffee Time

8:00-9:30 am - ProgramWhere: Chamber BoardroomWho Should Attend: The program is designed for newmembers and new employees of existing members lookingto obtain a better understanding of the Manhattan Chamberand the many benefits associated with membership.

As an attendee you will have the opportunity to:• Meet and interact with Membership Division staff• Share information about your business with attendees• Find out how to begin utilizing your Chamber membership;building on the reasons why you joined

This members-only program is limited to 24 and free toattend. RSVP online or by email to kim@manhattan.org.

The ball is in your court, your chamber membership can beone of your greatest assets, but you only get out what youput in. Stay involved, do not ever give up and use yourchamber to help you win.

We look forward to having you join us on February 24th.

Sponsored by:

Orscheln acquires Abilene centerOrscheln Farm and Home LLC has acquired a 357,000 square footdistribution center located on 54 acres in Abilene.

'Orscheln is excited about the growth opportunities representedby the addition of this second distribution center and is nowpoised to double the number of Orscheln Farm and Home retailstores as we continue our growth and expansion,' said Orschelnpresident Stephen Chick.

Orscheln, one of the largest family owned rural retail companies inthe U.S., currently operates chain of over 160 retail stores locatedin Arkansas, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Missouri,Nebraska and Oklahoma, which are serviced by a distribution center at the company headquarters in Moberly, Mo.

Noteworthy NewsNoteworthy News

For Valentine’s Day, Little Apple Dollarsmakes the perfect gift and is a great way tokeep your dollars local!

Spendable at over 100 area businesses,these checks are easy to use and are spentexclusively with Manhattan Area Chamberof Commerce merchants adding to thelocal economy.

If you are a Chamber member and are not currently on the list of accepting merchants andwould like to be, please contact Kathy at the Chamber office at 785-776-8829.

Businesses That AcceptLittle Apple® Dollars •14-19 Mercantile, LLC •3C Carriage Service, LLC •Al Langton Insurance, Inc•Alex's Affordable Eyeware . •Alliance Property Management, Inc •American Pest Management, Inc. •Anderson Bed & Breakfast •Bartlett & West, Inc. •Bear Computer Systems •Big Poppi Bicycle Co. •Blueville Nursery, Inc. •Body First •Borck Brothers Clothing •Bourbon and Baker •The Boutique •Boys & Girls Club of Manhattan •Brown's Shoe Fit Co. •The Buckle •Burger King •Campus Hairstyling •Carlos O'Kelly's •Carpet Cleanse •Carpet Plus •Cash Lumber & Hardware, Inc. •Chili's Grill & Bar •Claflin Books •Copeland InsuranceAgency •Copies 4 Less, Inc. •Country Stampede •Cox Bros BBQ •Danenberg Jewelers •Dara's Fast Lane •Della Voce •Dry Clean City •Eastside Market •Endacott Lighting •Faith Furniture •Famous Dave's Bar-B-Que •Farmers Insurance - Morgan Agency •Flint Hills Christian School

•G. Thomas Jewelers •Glass Impressions •Golf USA •Goodcents Deli Fresh Subs •Griffith Lumber •Guest Haus Bed & Breakfast •Harry's •Hobby Lobby •Holiday Inn at the Campus •Homecare and Hospice •Hy-Vee •Jon Murdock, Inc. •J Green Dog Studio •Kansas Kollection •Katalyst - Sign & Graphix •The Key Office •K-Scrubs •K-State Superstore •Little Apple Brewing Co. •Little Apple Toyota Honda •Little Caesars Pizza •Longhorn Steakhouse •M&S Plumbing, Inc. •Manhattan Area Technical College •Manhattan Arts Center •Manhattan Carpet & Interiors •Manhattan Computer Hospital •Manhattan Country Club •Manhattan Running Company •Manhattan Town Center Customer Service Center •Max Bodyworks •Max Fitness East •Max Fitness West •Maximum Performance Physical Therapy & Fitness •Mead Lumber Do It Center •Merle Norman •Midland Exteriors •The Morning Star Bed & Breakfast •Mr. K's Cafe & Bar •Never Better Bakery

•Orscheln Farm & Home •Papa Murphy's Pizza •The Pathfinder •Pfeifley Jewelers •The Phone ConnectionVoice Networks•Pizza Hut - Manhattan •Planet Beach •Platinum & Company •Positive Air, LLC •Premier Chiropractic & Wellness •RadioShack-Manhattan •Redi Systems, Inc. •Rockhill Wellness Center •The Salvation Army •Scenic Valley Inn and the Wooden Nickel Event Center •Shaw Family Chiropractic & Acupuncture •Shear Dynamics Salon & Spa Above the Plaza •Stewart Advisory Services •Straight Upp Creative Studio •Strecker-Nelson Gallery•Sunset Zoo•Swims & Sweeps, Inc.•Tallgrass Brewing Company •Texas Roadhouse •Tractor Supply Company •UFM Community Learning Center •Vista Drive-In •VonFeldt, Bauer & VonFeldt, CPAs •Wal-Mart •Waste Management •Weddle and Sons, Inc. •Westside Market •Women's Health Group

Business BarometerDecember 2013 December 2014

BUILDING PERMITS - source: City of Manhattan

Total Issued 33 31

Residential $4,381,540 $2,447,148

Non-Residential $1,348,725 $7,226,307

Permit Fees Paid $34,265 $41,120

RETAIL SALES (Manhattan) - source: City of Manhattan

Retail Sales $88,756,700 $86,357,000

Sales Tax Collections $887,567 $863,570

MANHATTAN AIR PASSENGER TRAFFIC - MHK airport

Enplanement 6,183 5,876

Deplanement 5,615 4,829

Due to the New Year’s Holiday, the Military RelationsCommittee (MRC) did not hold a luncheon this past January.MRC spent much time this month planning future luncheonsand events for the coming year.

The MRC did join the Junction City Military Affairs Committee(JC MAC) for a combined breakfast at Riley’s ConferenceCenter featuring COL Risa Ware, Commander of Irwin ArmyCommunity Hospital, giving an update on the new hospital construction on Fort Riley. Over 150 Manhattan and JunctionCity community members joined together with soldiers andspouses from Fort Riley to listen to our guest speaker andenjoy a meal together.

The Manhattan Military Liaison attended many planning meet-ings for the upcoming February 9th Listening Session at 3pm in the afternoon at the Geary County Convention Center inJunction City. The Listening Session is next phase of the ArmyForce Structure and Stationing Decision process is the commu-nity listening session. The listening session is an opportunityfor the community to provide input to Army leaders on theArmy's decision process of reducing the Active ArmyComponent end strength. Come make your voice heard andshow your support of Fort Riley.

The first MRC Luncheon of 2015 will be Wednesday,February 4th at Four Points by Sheraton from 11:30amto 1:00pm. BG Eric Wesley, Acting Senior Commander FirstInfantry Division and Fort Riley, is guest speaker.

Military Update

Page 10 Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce Little Apple® Business Review February 2015

Small Business TaxWorkshops – Wednesday,March 4th

The Small BusinessDevelopment Center will behosting a tax specialist fromthe Kansas Department ofRevenue for two SmallBusiness Tax Workshops onWednesday, March 4th.

Topics to be coveredinclude; Kansas Withholding,

Estimated Taxes, Sales Taxes,Sales Tax Exemptions,Compensating Use Taxes andTax Filings.

The construction contractorsession will also includeinformation on how sales taxapplies to materials andlabor, billing and the use ofProject ExemptionCertificates. Additionally, arepresentative from theKansas Department of Laborwill present an overview ofthe Kansas unemploymenttax requirements, the filingprocess, and clarify the dif-ference in classifying a work-er as an employee or anindependent contractor.

Kansas Department ofRevenue – Small BusinessTax WorkshopsWednesday, March 4, 2015Manhattan Area Chamber ofCommerce Boardroom501 Poyntz Avenue

Retailers, Service Providersand Manufacturers: 9:00am -Noon

Construction Contractors:1:00pm-3:30pm

Registration is required andthe cost to attend one ofthe Business Tax Workshopsessions is $20. Light refresh-ments will be provided. Pleasecontact the Small BusinessDevelopment Center Officeat 785-587-9917 or daryn.sol-dan@washburn.edu withquestions and to register.

Daryn Soldan501 Poyntz AvenueManhattan, KS 66502785-587-9917daryn.soldan@washburn.eduwashburnsmallbusiness.com

February 2015 Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce Little Apple® Business Review Page 11

This program was created,designed and critiqued bymembers and non-mem-bers for area business menand women. Attendees areprovided the opportunityto learn about theManhattan Area Chamberof Commerce and its mem-bership while sharing whatmakes their business/orga-nization special and unique.

“Would recommend highly.”~ Joel Salts, BlueDoor4Property Management

"Excellent program for mem-bers to give testimonials onwhat the Chamber can do foryou and what it has done forthem."~ Valon Jones, Flint HillsBreadbasket

Take the opportunity to: • Network with other business professionals from the community – members & guests• Learn about the Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce

• Share about your businessor organization

The program is limited to 8members and 8 guests toattend and is free to all.

2015 Coffee &Conversation:Member/Guest Programdates:• Thursday, January 29th • Friday, April 10th • Thursday, July 23rd • Thursday, October 29th

Interested in becoming amember and attending anupcoming Coffee &Conversation program?Please contact KimDahlsten, Director ofMembership Development,776-8829 or kim@manhat-tan.org for more informa-tion and available dates.

What is the Chamber?The Manhattan AreaChamber of Commerce isa nonprofit, voluntaryorganization of citizensworking together to sup-port the business develop-ment of Manhattan andmake it a better place towork and live. Since incor-poration in 1925, theChamber and its many vol-unteers have invested theirtime and money to worktogether and accomplishobjectives that are impossi-ble to do alone.

Interested in becoming a member, butwould like to know more?Join us for a Coffee & Conversation: Member / GuestProgram. Coffee & Conversation.

785.539.4861 • 311-D Houston Street • Manhattan KS 66502

N.1501.RMM An independent licensee of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association

Doug Martens Michelle FellGroup ConsultantTopeka – 785.291.7000

Group Enrollment RepManhattan – 785.539.4861

6184.93.5587 • o HD-113

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Michelle FellGroup Enrollment RepManhattan – 785.539.4861

teert Sontsuo • 20566S Kn attahnaM

Shield Blue Cross Blue the of licensee independent An

Association Shield

Did You Know? Use the Chamber logo on yourpromotional pieces and website.

Members of the Chamber are encouraged to display the Chamber logo on their website home page, other aspects of their marketing material, and tag radio advertisingby saying “a proud member of the Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce.”

The idea is simple and costs you nothing. Your company’s affiliation with the Chamberconveys a feeling of stability, credibility and reliability to the public. A recent study bythe Schapiro Group of Atlanta, GA shows that when consumers know that a business isa member of their local Chamber of Commerce, they are 49% more likely to thinkfavorably of that business and are 80% more likely to purchase goods and services fromthat business.

By displaying the Chamber logo on your website and marketing materials, your businessis strengthened and you have a better opportunity for your business to grow.

To take advantage of this member benefit, please contact Dena Huff at 776-8829 ordena@manhattan.org today.

Page 12 Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce Little Apple® Business Review February 2015

To make sure your business’s interests are represented tolocal/national authori-ties.We have a full time lobbyistthat goes to bat for business-es. We make sure that anybill that comes up in thestate legislature which is not business friendly is carefullywatched, testimony written & presented and voting members are dogged sothey are aware of what thelargest business voice inManhattan thinks.

To uphold the image of business in your community.The Chamber makes sure the face of business in theManhattan community is professional, polished andpoised for the future.

To meet people who may buy your productsor services or help you professionally.The chamber representsabout 811 businesses and17,200+ employees. At any

Chamber event you maymeet someone who caneither sell you a productyou may need or that youcould sell your product orservices to. We have hadseveral people say they havenever gone to a BusinessAfter Hours without comingaway with some sort ofpiece of new business.

To show the public andyour customers your business is a supporter of the community.Wouldn’t you prefer to dobusiness with someone whoalso supports the communi-ty and has the same mindframe as you? You’ll findthose people in your localChamber of Commerce.We’re not your father’sChamber anymore wherepeople joined because it wasthe right thing to do….Youjoin because you want to doas much business as you canlocally and hope others willdo the same.

To win more businessesfrom consumers.A study by the SchapiroGroup shows that con-sumers are 80% more likelyto buy from a company thatis a chamber member. Whatbusiness wouldn’t want thatedge?

To learn from peoplewho have business problems and opportuni-ties similar to yours.Where better to connectwith someone who hasgone through what youmight be going through?You don’t have to reinventthe wheel each time. Meetwith someone who hasgone through the sameissues and skip some of thesteps…experience is invalu-able and you can tape into amultitude of experiencedbusiness people.

To join ranks with someof the best businessesand organizations intown.More studies….a study bythe financial reporting firmCortera shows that cham-ber member companies onaverage have better creditratings and better businesspractices than the averagecompany. Simply by joiningyour local Chamber, yourbusiness gains instant credi-bility.

To gain access to leadersin your community.The big guns? They aremembers of the Chamber.And they participatebecause they know it makesa difference to the commu-nity. There is no otherorganization that will giveyou access to those kinds ofpeople. Are we only aboutBig Business? On the con-trary…we’re actually moreabout small businesses.Most of our membership –71% - are firms with 10employees or less.

To participate in dozensof networking events.Networking, connecting, orwhatever term you use – noone does it better than yourlocal Chamber. We’ve gotevents at any time of day –morning, noon and night –so you can usually find anevent to fit your time sched-ule. And networking doesn’tmean selling someonesomething. It’s all aboutputting the right peopletogether to make greatthings happen.

To help your community prosper and grow for thebenefit of everyone in it.Love Manhattan? So dowe…and we want to makesure this is a great place towork and live. The more pri-mary business here, themore secondary businessneeds will follow.

We’re so much more thanmeetings! And even if younever come to one singleChamber event, we’re stillworking for you.

Why should my business join the Chamber?