little apple business review - june 2015

A publication of the Manhattan Area Chamber of CommerceJune 2015, Volume 11, Issue 6, www.manhattan.org

Contact us:501 Poyntz Avenue

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

[email protected] www.manhattan.org

TDD Kansas Relay Center: 800-766-3777

Connect with theManhattan AreaChamber of

Commerce throughSocial Media.

Peer to peer program offeringpractical, day to day informa-tion on business operations.

Program Goals: • Create an educational program series focused on small businesses (owners &employees, Chamber members and nonmembers).

• Serve as a complement to current Kansas Small Business Development Center program offerings.

• Develop a new education format which is fun and engaging which provides peer to peer sharing, accessibility and implement-ability.

Program Topic #1: SO YOU’RE ANARTIST….HOW DO YOU MAKEIT A BUSINESS?

Date: Thursday, July 9Time: 3:30 – 5:00 pmLocation: ChamberBoardroom, 501 Poyntz Ave.Note: Limit of 30 attendees;reservations are required

Speaker 1: Tim Weiser,Manzanita Art and AntiquesLLC Speaker 2: Sheila Ellis-Gasper,Precious Heart DesignSpeaker 3: TBA

Agenda:3:30 pm Introductions &

Welcome3:40 -3:55 pm Speaker 13:55-4:05 pm Break4:05-4:20 pm Speaker 24:20-4:30 pm Break4:30-4:45 pm Speaker 34:45-5:00 pm Wrap up5:00-6:00 pm (Optional) Social time at nearby member restaurant

Call 785-776-8829 or [email protected] to register. Chamber membersand general public are wel-come to attend. Registrationis limited to first 30 attendees.

For program questions pleasecontact Daryn Soldan, TrentArmbrust or Kim Dahlsten at785-776-8829.

For sponsorship inquiries,please contact Kim Dahlstenat 785-776-8829.

A partnership program of:

Presenting………Open Source!

Kansas State University is widelyrecognized as an internationalleader in food safety initiatives, andan innovator in global food supplysolutions. In conjunction withthose bona fides, K-State’s petfood program is the first of itskind in an industry that hasexploded with recent innovations.Logically, K-State is a reliablesource of research and a highly-educated workforce to the petfood industry.

Trent Armbrust of the ManhattanArea Chamber of Commerceattended a recent summit of 2,500pet food industry professionals atthe Kansas City ConventionCenter. His energy at the Pet FoodForum was devoted to promote

K-State and the Chamber’s eco-nomic interests, as an extension ofthe Knowledge Based EconomicDevelopment partnership thatincludes the city, K-State, KSUFoundation and the Chamber.

Manhattan plays a central role inKansas City’s Animal HealthCorridor, and is well positioned tocapitalize on economic windfallsthrough increased developmentinitiatives and research plans. TheKC corridor is a centralized hubto the ever-expanding pet foodindustry, and accounts for 61 per-cent of U.S. sales within a $23-bil-lion domestic industry. TheChamber exerts proactive influ-ence to engage in discussion withnational- and state-level

Department of Agriculture, indus-try reps and university leaders.

Dr. Greg Aldrich is ResearchAssociate Professor at the K-StateGrain Science & IndustryDepartment, and a respected con-sultant to the pet food industry.Aldrich and Armbrust are strongadvocates to push a continued dia-logue to promote Manhattan’sleading role in the KC AnimalHealth Corridor. Exhibit space for April’s Pet FoodForum was increased to 103,000square feet and sold out inFebruary. The conference is thelargest internationally-attendedevent of its kind and establishedrecord attendance.

Chamber makes inroads to collaborate at pet food forum 6 Ways to Build LongLasting CustomerRelationshipsIn this ageof con-sumerism,there's achoice forevery prod-uct. Youalone donot hold amonopolyon yourproduct so youmust understand that the customer is king. For a business to be sustained andstay viable, the customer must always comefirst. Keeping them happy and returning for

© Can Stock Photo Inc. / happystock

Continued on page 9

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

31 to 40 YearsBorck Brothers ClothingS & N Design

21 to 30 YearsDillons Food Market - Store #46 GTM SportswearLandmark Real EstateLittle CaesarsMatheson TRIGASMrs. Powell’sPaul Bosch

15 to 20 YearsCountry StampedeStrecker-Nelson Gallery

10 to 14 YearsDixie RobertsNetwork Computer SolutionsScenic Valley Inn and the Wooden Nickel Event Center

5 to 9 yearsAble Printing CompanyHighland Ridge ApartmentsHoliday Inn at the CampusK+STAT Urgent Care EastManhattan Dental, LLCMcAlister’s DeliPapa Murphy’sTallgrass Brewing Company, Inc.

1 to 4 years Association of the United States ArmyBody First, LLCColorado Plaza – Senior HousingDan YunkDebbie MercerElectrical Concepts Inc.Fox Home Innovations, LLCKansas Regenerative Medicine CenterLaw Offices of Seaton, Seaton and Dierks, LLP LeaderOne Financial Corp.Michael Henry PhotographyNavy Federal Credit UnionRainbow Intl. of E. Central KSRestore of the Heartland, Inc.Stewart Advisory Services, LLCTaco John’s of ManhattanTommy Lee HolderWildcat2Go, LLC

Expert Floor Matting, Inc. Benedict Dabrowski,Owner PO Box 85 St. Mary’s, KSPh (708) 614-7295www.expertfloormatting.comWe are a supplier for com-mercial floor mats for buildingsand facilities. Our catalogincludes entrance mats, logomats, anti-fatigue mats, andmuch more.

The mission of the Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce is to foster achanging environment for business success that enhances the quality of lifein our region. We market the region, advocate for business, and provideservices to our members and customers.

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

This is a publication of the Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce – alladvertising is the responsibility of The Manhattan Mercury. To place an ador for more information, call Samantha Fosha at 776-2200, [email protected].

Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce Little Apple® Business Review June 2015

Wednesday, August 124:30 – 7:00pm

Four Points by Sheraton - 530 Richards Dr

The Business Showcase provides the perfect venue for allChamber members – large or small - to highlight their products & services, build relationships with new & existingcustomers, and promote events & memberships.

Don’t miss this excellent, affordable marketing opportunitydesigned for companies of all sizes. The earlier your reserveyour table, the more we can promote your business. Reserveyour space today!

Register no later than Friday, June 12th to receive theearly bird rate of $195.

Contact Laura Anderson to reserve your table at [email protected] or 776-8829.

Visit www.manhattanchamber.org for the complete ExhibitorAgreement form (under Events & Programs; BusinessShowcase).

ReinvestingReinvestingThank you forThank you forThank you for

Ways to GO GREENAT WORK right now!Ask your boss if you cantelecommute to work even for one day eachweek to cut down ongas waste and carbon

emissions

This program was created, designed andcritiqued by members and non-membersfor area business men and women.Attendees are provided the opportunityto learn about the Manhattan AreaChamber of Commerce and its member-ship while sharing what makes their busi-ness/organization special and unique.

Take the opportunity to: • Network with other business profes-sionals from the community – members & guests

• Learn about the Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce

• Share about your business or organizationThe program is limited to 8 members and8 guests to attend and is free to all.

Remaining dates:• Thursday, July 23rd • Thursday, October 29th

Interested in becoming a member andattending an upcoming Coffee &Conversation program? Please contactKim Dahlsten, Director of MembershipDevelopment, 776-8829 or [email protected] for more information and availabledates.

What is the Chamber?The Manhattan Area Chamber ofCommerce is a nonprofit, voluntary organization of citizens working togetherto support the business development ofManhattan and make it a better place towork and live. Since incorporation in 1925,the Chamber and its many volunteers have invested their time and money towork together and accomplish objectivesthat are impossible to do alone

Interested in becoming a member, but would liketo know more?

Sponsored by

Over 200 members braved the rain andattended our Business After Hours eventhosted by Bank of the Flint Hills. Guestsenjoyed networking while being treated todelicious food and drinks.

The door prizes from Bank of the Flint Hillswere won by Jan Connizzo with Ryan &Sons, LLC; Corey Grosse with NorthCentral – Flint Hills Area Agency on Aging,

and the grand prize winner of the coveted Yeti cooler was Brad Hartenstein with the FlintHills Area Builders Association.

Kevin Robel with Robel Graphics received $50 in Little Apple Dollars and Phil McKinneywith Schwab Eaton won a year pass to Business After Hours.

Please join us for Business After Hours in May!Wednesday, June 10 5:30 – 7:00 pmRC McGraw’s

2317 Tuttle Creek Blvd.

Reservations can be made online at www.manhattanchamber.org, by emailing [email protected] or call 776-8829.

Hosted by:

June 2015 Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce Little Apple® Business Review

Upcoming Chamber Events

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

June 3 4 Women WorkshopTopic: Lead by Example11:45 am – 1:00 pmChamber Boardroom

June 10 Business After Hours5:30-7:00 pmHost: Kaw Valley Rodeo Association

June 16 Manhattan Young ProfessionalsEducational Lunch11:30 pmHoliday Inn at the Campus

June 18 Conversations: Roundtables for Women in Business11:00 am – 1:00 pmManhattan Country Club

June 19 Ribbon cutting - New Century Bank10:00 am2815 Anderson Avenue

June 23 Member Orientation7:45 – 9:30 amChamber Boardroom

July 8 Business After Hours5:30 – 7:00 pmHost: Colbert Hills Golf Course & Restaurant

July 9 Open Source3:30 - 5:00 pmChamber Boardroom

July 14 Women in Business Summer Social5:30 – 7:30 pmKSU Alumni Center, Tointon Great Room, 1st Floor

July 16 Good Morning Manhattan7:15 – 8:30 amManhattan Country Club

July 21 Manhattan Young Professionals4:00 pmTour of RCPD

July 23 Coffee & Conversations: Member/ Guest7:30 am – 9:30 amChamber Boardroom

July 28 Morning Mingle7:45 – 9:00 amChamber Boardroom

*All dates and times are subject to change.

Thank you to the following members ofthe Chamber Champions and Chamber

Diplomats for volunteering to help with registration at the May

Business After Hours: BradHartenstein with the Flint Hills AreaBuilders Association, Linda Jones withAFLAC, and Genae Denver withManhattan Christian College.

Prepay for Business After Hours and save $$$

These laminated passports are great for businesses that regularly send representatives to Business After Hours. Monthly checks or expense reimbursements are eliminated.And, best of all, at $48 each you save up to $72 annually over the usual $5-10 donation.

Passports are not specific to one person, so multiple people may enter on one passport. An RSVP is still requested. Interested? Please contact Laura Anderson at [email protected] or call the Chamber office at 776-8829.

During the Manhattan Chamber’s ‘Conversations’,professional women come together and discussimportant topics – including business and quality-of-life issues unique to women in the workforce.

Thursday, June 18, 201511:00 am – 1:00 pmManhattan Country Club, 1531 North 10th Street

11:00 am Registration and Networking 11:30 am Lunch Buffet Opens 11:45 am Welcome11:50 am Keynote Speaker:

Dr. Beth Funk 12:10 am Roundtable Discussions Begin 12:50 pm Attendee Survey & Upcoming Events

1:00 pm Program Concludes

Members and guests are welcome to attend.Reservations required. Please advise the Chamberof any dietary restrictions/requirements.

Members $22 ~ General Public $30

Reservation, cancellation and refund deadline is Friday, June 12, 2015.

To register, inquire about sponsorshipoptions or for additional programdetails, contact Kim Dahlsten [email protected] or 785-776-8829.

Guiding Sponsor:

Contributing Sponsor:

Supporting Sponsor:

Conversations: Roundtables for Women in BusinessNetworking with a purpose

Seating willsell out!

Make yourreservations

today.

Women in Business Summer SocialTargeted networking event to expand the circle of contacts, friends and peers for women in business in the Manhattan and surrounding region.

Tuesday, July 14, 20155:30-7:00 pmKSU Alumni Center, Tointon Great Room, 1st Floor

5:30 pm Registration, Hors d'oeuvres & Cash Bar 5:45 pm Welcome, Meet & Mingle7:00 pm Event Concludes

Members and general public are welcome to attend. Reservations are required. Members $20 ~ General Public $28 (payable at registration)

Reservation, cancellation and refund deadline is July 7, 2015.

To register, inquire about sponsorship options or for additional program details, contactKim Dahlsten at [email protected] or 785-776-8829.

Motivating Sponsor:

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

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Consider that 19 years of Kicker Country Stampede has hosted somemega-stars on the stages at Tuttle Creek State Park. Now consider thatafter 2015’s event, 3 million visitors will have bounced through Manhattanfor four days of classic country music. And while you consider those factoids, think about how many out-of-statevisitors fill hotel rooms and restaurantsaround Manhattan. The benefits are staggeringthat Country Stampede has meant to the city.Officials estimate that Stampede has an impacton Manhattan of over $10 million.

This year’s 20th annual celebrationstars CMA Male Vocalist of the YearBlake Shelton from NBC’s “TheVoice”. Florida Georgia Line, ThomasRhett, Sara Evans and Travis Tritt aremore of the headliners for the coun-try music blowout June 25-28 atTuttle Creek State Park.

June 2015Volume 15, Issue 6A publication of the

ManhattanConvention &Visitors Bureau

Kicker Country Stampede has big impact on MHK economy

• June 25-28• Tuttle Creek State Park• CountryStampede.com

Tasty treats at 4th National bread contestTravel Writers focuson MHKManhattan is thriving as a tourism destination, and theManhattan Convention and Visitors Bureau makes ongoingefforts to reach event planners and attract conventions ofall sizes to convene here. Ubiquitous opportunities exist tomake connections, build our brand and promote Manhattanas the jewel of north-central Kansas. Such an opportunityexists to strut our stuff when the Society of American TravelWriters arrive for a week in the Flint Hills. The ManhattanCVB collaborates with Wichita and Kansas Wildlife, Parksand Tourism to host the SATW Central States core meetingJune 9-14, which will culminate on June 13 at Symphony inthe Flint Hills.

More exciting events on the docket include Kansas Night atthe Flint Hills Discovery Center and reception with atten-dees of the Grasslands Symposium, as well as the NationalFestival of Breads coupled with tours of Manhattan attrac-tions and culinary delights. The Manhattan CVB will spendthe week making our best impression and enjoy the positivefeedback when writers review their week in The LittleApple®.

Baking bread. Good.

Breaking bread. Very good.

Devouring bread. Infinitelygood.

Kansas is the Breadbasket ofthe World and produces one-fifth of all the wheat grownin the U.S. It’s only naturalthat the National Festival ofBreads is again held inManhattan where agriculturerules. Saturday, June 13 is the Festival ofBreads baking contest and exhibit atManhattan Conference Center.

This event emphasizes the city’s capacityto coordinate a composite of tourism-related events. In addition to NFOB,Grasslands of the World symposium onworld conservation and Symphony in theFlint Hills (Strong City) are major eventsand big attractions for ManhattanConvention and Visitors Bureau, which will host the Society of American Travel Writers tocover the multiple events.

Eight adult finalists and one youth champion have been named for the biennial NFOB, thenation's only national amateur bread-baking competition. The June 13 festival is open tothe public and includes day-long demonstrations and exhibits such as a barbecue demofrom Rod Gray of BBQ national champion Pellet Envy.

NFOB concludes with a gala event that succeeds the judging competition.

Contestants and sponsors will tour a Kansas farm and experience all facets of bread mak-ing from field to table, to include grain harvest and storage to transit. Public entry toSaturday’s festival requires a donated canned food item.

National Festival of Breads• 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, June 13 (judging at 3)• Manhattan Conference Center

New students start college journeys

NFOB finalists• Chickpea-stuffed Aleppo flatbreads• Cheddar 'N' Chilies accordion bread• Curry and Chia onion buns• Rosemary cardamom twisters• Crunchy-topped coconut almond bread• Peppered Parmesan veggie Bread• Chocolate Swirl Loaves• Smokehouse Cranberry Cheese Bread

Symphony celebrates 10 years at Tallgrass PrairieThe intoxicatingly melodic sounds of the Kansas CitySymphony segue serendipitously in seamless beauty with themelancholy, bucolic scenery of the unadulterated Flint Hills.The product is the poetic perfection of Symphony in theFlint Hills, a grand event so purely and unmistakably uniquethat it is without equivalency. At this year’s 10th anniversarysignature event on June 13, Symphony in the Flint Hills welcomes Lyle Lovett in his return to the Tallgrass PrairieNational Preserve. Symphony in the Flint Hills celebratesthe history, ecology and culture of the last stand of nativetallgrass prairie. The symphony rotates each year to a different site in the Flint Hills region.

Symphony in the Flint Hills, June 13• Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve, Strong City• Sponsorship information 620-273-8955

Photo courtesy Symphony in the Flint Hills

Twelve sessions of K-Stateenrollment will bring incom-ing students and familymembers to Manhattan fororientation activities oncampus. June 11-13 is thefirst of three weekly seg-ments. The excitement offuture college careers willbe prevalent as these stu-dents become acquainted

with all things purple.Incoming students meetadvisors with class enroll-ment among the agenda. Allresidents can play the partof Chamber of Commercemembers, and if you’re notsure about any requestplease direct families to ouroffice at 501 Poyntz Ave.

We’re happy to work withthe K-State Family and bringnew members into the foldto learn the Wildcat Way!

K-State Orientation and Enrollment• June 11-13• June 16-20• June 23-26

Cultural and local eventsFlint Hills Discovery Center• In The Dark exhibit features the magical mysteries of the cavernous depths of darkness. The Center opens at 10 a.m. and closes at 5 p.m., with later Thursday hours until 8. FlintHillsDiscovery.org

Music -- Arts in the Park• Appalachia-gone-Afro-Brazilian beat with rolling drums and accordion music for the Friday night music series, 8 p.m. June 5.

• Trinidad Tripoli Steel Drum Band on its final tour visits the Larry Norvell Band Shell stage. Steel drum music from the islands, 8 p.m. June 19. Cityofmhk.com/2459/Arts-in-the-Park

Exhibits• Oakland-Pontiac Worldwide stages its AACA region homecoming tour, June 17-20 at Long’s Park, 17th and Yuma. Oakland-pontiacworldwide.com

• Indie human interest film connoisseurs and adrenaline junkies unite for the Reel Paddling Film Festival, 2:30 p.m. June 20 at Flint Hills Discovery Center. Reelpaddlingfilmfestival.com

Miscellaneous• Wine in the Wild, June 6, features three events in one as a fundraiserfor Sunset Zoo. The general admission event from 7-9 p.m. at the zoo is the main attraction, with a pre-event VIP Reception and post-event Wine Down After Party. Sunsetzoo.com/Wild

• Poyntz turns into a legal drag stripwith Weenie Dog Races and Paws on Poyntz, June 6. Visit the WeenieDog Facebook page for more info.

• National Festival of Breads, 9 a.m. June 13, Manhattan Conference Center. NationalFestivalofBreads.com

• Little Apple Duck Dash fundraiser for the Boys & Girls Club of Manhattan, 10 a.m. June 13. Duckrace.com/Manhattan

• Kicker Country Stampede, June 25-28 at Tuttle Creek State Park. Countrystampede.com

Museums• The Strecker-Nelson Gallery exhibit “Eccentric Visions”features 10 artists and will be on display at 406 Poyntz Ave., until Saturday. Strecker-Nelsongallery.com

• Dean Mitchell’s “A Place, A Mental Space,” watercolors and oil paintings of the Southwest and Native Americaninfluence on architecture. On display through June 21 atBeach Museum, with Gifts of Contemporary Art from Donald J. Mrozek and R. Scott Dorman through July 12. Beach.K-State.edu

Adams Series Colbert ClassicThe fourth annualColbert CharityClassic June 24-27,hosted by LittleApple Toyota Hondaand the ManhattanConvention andVisitors Bureau,awards a top prize of$15,000 to the win-ner. The tournamentis the eighth stop andthe mid-point of theAdams Pro Seriesseason. Adams-leveltournaments typically draw 100 entrants, with practice rounds and a pro-am round in thedays preceding the four-round event. Golfers and caddies can spend an entire week at thecourse, meaning tourism dollars for lodging and restaurants. Head on out to Colbert andcheck out some pro golf.

Colbert Charity Classic• June 24-27• Colbert Hills Golf Course, 5200 Colbert Hills Drive• 1 of 14 Adams Pro Series events

Film Festival makes only Kansasstop in ManhattanDangle your feet in theriver and experience filmsthat inspire outdoorenthusiasts in pursuit ofthe next adventure whenthe Reel Paddling FilmFestival comes toManhattan. The RPFFWorld Tour arrives at theFlint Hills DiscoveryCenter on June 20, andthis is the only Kansasstop on the 10th annualtour. Similar events will beheld in Dallas, Duluth,Minn., Gunnison, Col., andKirkwood, Mo.

The inaugural festival here is acoup for Manhattan and theFlint Hills region. The films are caffeine to adrenaline junkies, and should draw paddle enthusiasts and thrill seekers from around the Flint Hills. RPFF inspires exploration ofrivers, lakes and streams around the Midwest. The Immersive Experience Theater inside the Discovery Center is the ideal venue for staging this festival, with six award-winning films to inspire viewers’ appreciation for the legacy and wild places frequented by paddleenthusiasts.

Reel Paddling Film Festival• 2:30 p.m. Saturday, June 20• Flint Hills Discovery Center Immersive Experience Theater (Regular admission rate apply)

Karen Hibbard, [email protected]

Marcia Rozell, Tourism [email protected]

Luke Wiggins, Convention [email protected]

Kendra Dekat, AdministrativeAssistant/ Service [email protected]

Manhattan Convention & Visitors Bureau Staff

June 2015Through June 21

Dean Mitchell: A Place, A Mental SpaceBeach Museum of Art, K-State785-532-7718

Through July 12Dinner and a Mid-Night Snack: Gifts of Contemporary Works on Paper from Donald J. Mrozek and R. Scott DormanBeach Museum of Art, K-State785-532-7718

Through September 20In the Dark, Flint Hills Discovery Center, 785-587-2726

2 Manhattan Municipal Band ConcertLarry Norvell Band Shell, City Park7:30 PM785-587-2757

5 Arts in the Park - MatutoLarry Norvell Band Shell, City Park8:00 PM785-587-2757

6 Kids Free DaySunset Zoo9:30 AM-4:00 PM785-587-2737

6 Weenie Dog Races & Paws on PoyntzDowntown Manhattan785-537-9683

6 Wine in the WildSunset Zoo5:30-11:00 PM785-587-2737

7 Riley County Master Gardeners 27th Annual Garden Tour1:00-5:00 PM785-537-6350

7 Speed Dating with WineLittle Apple Brewing Company5:30-7:30 pm785-539-550


12-14 Parade of Homes TourManhattan10:00 AM-4:00 PM785-532-9080

12 Hale Library Concert Series: Jazz In JuneHemisphere Room, KSU Hale Library7:30-10:00 PM785-532-7442

13 National Festival of BreadsManhattan Conference Center785-539-0255

13 Symphony in the Flint HillsTallgrass Prairie National Preserve620-273-8955

13 Little Apple Duck DashTuttle Creek State Park785-539-1947


18 Go See it! Lecture Series: Winemaking in the Flint HillsFlint Hills Discovery Center6:30-7:30 PM785-587-2726

18 Kids Summer Fun Series – Western Round-UpManhattan Town Center10:00 AM785-539-3500

19 Arts in the Park - Trinidad Tripoli Steel Drum BandLarry Norvell Band Shell, City Park8:00 PM785-587-2757

19-20 26th Annual Manhattan Juneteenth CelebrationManhattan City Park

20 Reel Paddle Film FestivalFlint Hills Discovery Center2:30-5:00 PM785-776-8829

20 10th Annual Autism Spectrum Disorders WorkshopManhattan Conference Center


25-28 20th Annual Kicker Country StampedeTuttle Creek State Park800-795-8091

28 Czech Immigration to Cuba KansasManhattan Public Library2:00 PM785-565-6495


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, HotelNeal Farmer, BusinessJennifer Fritchen, HotelEvan Grier, DiningBernie Haney, Youth/SportsTodd Holmberg, Entertainment/KSUMeridith McKee, HotelTerry Olson, RetailPenny Senften, Entertainment

Ben Sigle, AttractionJeff Wolfe, Meeting Planner/ KSU

Ex-Officio MembersEddie Eastes, City of ManhattanLyle Butler, Chamber PresidentUsha Reddi, City Commissioner

Manhattan CVB Steering Committee

June Anticipated Attendance NumbersConferences/Meetings/Reunions03 Signa Solutions - Shiga Toxin-Producing E. Coli to Improve.......100

Beef Safety (STEC) Annual Conference03 Affordable Senior Travel & SCN Bus Tours.......................................4005 Manhattan High School Fabulous Fifties Class Reunion ................1005 Sunrise Tours Group Tour.....................................................................2006 Kansas State University College of Veterinary Medicine

Annual Conference for Veterinarians07 Kansas County Appraisers Association ...........................................150

Annual Conference/Educational Seminars09 Kansas Foundation for Agriculture in the Classroom....................50

Connecting Your Classroom to Kansas Agriculture10 Delta Chi Fraternity Reunion ..............................................................5011 Society of American Travel Writers Annual Convention ...............7512 Symphony in the Flint Hills Grasslands Symposium.....................20015 Kansas Association of Realtors Mid-Year Meeting .......................20020 Pilot Club International Austism Workshop...................................200Sporting Events01 Kansas Golf Association Kansas Tournaments .................................4011 Mid America Baseball Tournaments..................................................10019 Mid America Baseball Tournaments..................................................10021 Kansas Golf Association Senior Four-Ball .......................................10022 Adams Golf Pro Tour/ Colbert's Charity Classic..............................10025 Pastime Baseball Tournaments...........................................................100Special Events13 Kansas Wheat Commission National Festival of Breads.............60013 Heartland Corvette Club Annual Corvette Poker Run ..............12519 Juneteenth ..............................................................................................200

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


6 Ways toBuild LongLastingCustomerRelationshipsContinued from page 1

more is the ultimate goal forany business.

Several studies have shownthat repeat customers buysignificantly more on theirvisit than first time cus-tomers and repeat cus-tomers are also more likelyto recommend you to some-one close to them. In ourcurrent environment ofincreasing competition, build-ing relationships with cus-tomers has now beenbrought into the spotlightand businesses are focusing alot more of their attentionon the matter.

Customers are real peoplewith feelings and emotions,which can be tapped toestablish a bond. Customersare not nameless faces onthe Internet, nor are theyfaceless voices on the phone.For a business, each cus-tomer is a distinct individualwho matters. As ad manextraordinaire David Ogilysaid, “The customer is not amoron. She is your wife.”

Show Them Respect

Customers are real peoplewith real emotions. Each oneis a distinct individual whomatters; not one more thanthe other, but all of equalimportance. You must estab-lish a bond from the outset.Customers are crucial to thesurvival of your business and

they deserve the best possi-ble behavior.

In order for them to warmto you, you must show sin-cerity and be respectful tothem and their needs.Carrying yourself in a man-nerly and professional fashionwill help you win theirrespect. This is the first stepto thawing the ice.

Share YourKnowledge

Customers appreciateinformative advice so if youare able to display yourknowledge and expertise inyour field, there is everychance they will warm toyou. Staying professional inapproach and demeanor areessential to success. Themost widespread channel forknowledge sharing is theInternet. This is the biggestplatform to show your cus-tomers that you are anexpert in your chosen field.

Respond toCustomer Queries

A customer’s query immedi-ately answered builds good-will and increases thechances of his returning for apurchase. Have a process inplace to collect customerfeedback and a way to lognot only complaints, but alsohow you and your companyrespond to issues as they arereported so this can be repli-cated if the issue ever arisesagain.

This is not only the case fornegative feedback. Businessesshould also pay close atten-tion to positive feedback.Not only do positive com-ments help tell a companywhat they are doing right but

they also encourage othersto take notice of them.

Reward Them

Customers feel rewardedwhen an exclusive offer ismade to them, or to a selectgroup of frequent customers.Not only does a loyalty pro-gram provide a practical, hardreason for continuing to buy(the accumulation of pointstowards a reward, or higherlevel of service) but it alsoprovides information aboutthe customers that allowstheir needs to be met moreefficiently and effectively.

Rewarding existing cus-tomers for their continuedloyalty will not only increaseretention, but also increasethe number of new cus-tomers your business bringsin. This will occur throughpositive feedback from exist-ing customers and also eye-catching loyalty deals, whichwill draw them in. Example ofreward programs include loy-alty programs, offering dis-counts on selected lines,point rewards, and also givingaway free items with multiplepurchases.

Be Active on SocialMedia

There is a new tool availablecalled social customer rela-tionship management orCRM. This tool has becomeone of the most importantmarketing tools for manybusinesses. It lets you makethe most of your socialmedia interactions by tyingthem in with a database andallowing you to manage thedata easier.

Social networks are a greatway to stay in touch with

customers and build relation-ships. Through social mediawe get a front row seat intothe latest developments ofour customers’ lives and indoing so can begin to meas-ure their needs. Facebookand Twitter are the mostpopular tools for business tointeract through socialmedia, so “Likes” and“Follows” are the first stepsin building a customer rela-tionship.

Comments on your business,or mentions in the industryyou are in, can be used asvaluable feedback and willdetermine how best to moveforward. Frequently updateyour social media sites to tryand garner some feedbackand interaction from customers.

Always respond to criticism,don’t simply ignore it. Youmust show the world youare going to find a solutionand are taking steps to eradi-cate the fault.

Networking

A successful networkerknows that it is not just whats/he receives from others butwhat s/he gives that deter-mines whether the network-er is building solid relation-ships. The entire purpose ofnetworking is to build solid,trusting relationships–busi-

ness relationships that are ofvalue to everyone involved.

You want your customers tofeel that they are going toobtain something of valuefrom your service.Networking will grow yourbusiness, attract long-lastingbusiness associates, anddevelop a solid referral basefor your business.

Brian Cleary is the ChiefExecutive of County TipperaryChamber of Commerce. He’salso the past director ofChambers Ireland. He writesfor a number of online publica-tions and is a regular co-pre-senter of the 'Small BusinessShow' a syndicated radio pro-gram broadcast on a numberof stations throughout Irelandand available as a podcast. Youcan find him on Twitter@ChamberBrian.

Business BarometerApril 2014 April 2015

BUILDING PERMITS - source: City of Manhattan

Total Issued 32 41

Residential $3,362,357 $4,690,241

Non-Residential $489,896 $1,938,093

Permit Fees Paid $24,695 $39,527

RETAIL SALES (Manhattan) - source: City of Manhattan

Retail Sales $80,674,700 $84,587,700

Sales Tax Collections $806,747 $845,877

MANHATTAN AIR PASSENGER TRAFFIC - MHK airport

Enplanement 4,800 5,079

Deplanement 4,855 5,261

COL Robert Law, Commander, First Division Sustainment Brigade,addresses over 100 Military Relations Committee Members at the May MRC Luncheon.Photo courtesy Fort Riley Public Affairs Office

May was filled with great military events, including these:

• The MRC co-sponsored the May 28th USO No Dough Dinner with Briggs Auto and Fort Riley Firehouse #2. 200 Fort Riley families enjoyed Firetrucks, bounce houses, picnicdinner and birthday cake!

• BG Erik Kurilla, Deputy Commanding General, Maneuver, departed Fort Riley with his family after a Victory with Honors Ceremony at First Infantry Division Headquarters.

• Thirty three young Americans were commissioned to the rank of Second Lieutenant by Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Martin Dempsey as part of K-State’s Graduation festivities. Congratulations from the MRC!

Military Update


Upcoming QuickBooksClasses

Riley County and part of theCity of Manhattan are nowdesignated as a NetworkKansas EntrepreneurshipCommunity (E-Community).This partnership betweenthe Manhattan AreaChamber of Commerce andNetwork Kansas comes withmultiple benefits to areabusinesses, including the cre-

ation of a local E-CommunityLoan program. Loans fromthis fund can be applied forby qualifying locally-ownedbusinesses and utilized as gapfinancing to facilitate busi-ness growth.

The funds can be used forthe purchase of land, build-ings and equipment, as wellas for working capital, inven-tory, remodel/renovation andother projects related tobusiness growth. Some ofthe guidelines for the E-Community loans includethat funding cannot exceed60% of the total projectcost, the E-Community loanmaximum is $45,000, andthere must be matchingfunds from financial institu-tions, personal/owner invest-ment or other NetworkKansas E-Community part-ners. Businesses must belocated within the bound-aries of the E-Community

and be a for-profit entity.Additional information canbe found online atwww.NetworkKansas.com

These E-Community loanprograms have a strongrecord of success around thestate of Kansas. This area iswell served as PottawatomieCounty also has an estab-lished E-Communities pro-gram. For more informationon eligibly and the applica-tion process, please contactTrent Armbrust at theManhattan Area Chamber ofCommerce or Daryn Soldanat the Small BusinessDevelopment Center.

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

4 Women Workshops – Developing Women Business LeadersTopic: Lead by ExampleWednesday, June 3, 2015

Thank you to the following sponsors for their support of our June 3rd event.

We invite you to join us for an upcoming4 Women Workshop – Developing WomenBusiness Leaders:• August 4• October 1• December 16

To register, inquire about sponsorship options or for additional program details, contact Kim Dahlsten at [email protected] or 785-776-8829.


Now that you belong, it'stime to learn more aboutthe value the Chamber hasto offer you and your busi-ness.

What: Member Orientation: You Belong! What's Next?

When: Tuesday, June 23

Time: 7:45 am – Doors Open & Coffee 8:00-9:30 am - Program

Where: Chamber Boardroom

Who Should Attend: Theprogram is designed for newmembers and new employ-ees of existing memberslooking to obtain a betterunderstanding of theManhattan Chamber and themany benefits associatedwith membership.

As an attendee you will havethe 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 programis limited to 24 and free toattend.

RSVP online or by email [email protected].

The ball is in your court,your chamber membershipcan be one of your greatestassets, but you only get outwhat you put in. Stayinvolved, do not ever give upand use your chamber tohelp you win.

We look forward to havingyou join us on June 23rd.

Sponsored by:

Member Orientation: YouBelong! What's Next?Coldwell Banker employees

get awardsThe International ColdwellBanker franchise office hasannounced the following awardsfor its locally ownedfranchisee. The franchise hasmore than 85,000 associatesworldwide with over 2,400offices. • Office Manager's Award: KellyAdams, owner and managing bro-ker - this represents the top 13percent of all affiliate offices insales and per agent productivity.• President's Elite Award: ThereseAdams, owner broker - this

honor is reserved for the top 2percent of the 85,000 agentsworldwide associated withColdwell.• Diamond Society: Larry Cline,Donna Hagemen and VirginiaReyes-Kramer - this honor rep-resents the top 11 percent of the85,000 agents worldwide associ-ated with Coldwell.• Sterling Society: SherryWheeler, Tomi O'Conner, BriaTaddiken-Williams and CarolynHill - this honor is given to thetop 17 percent of the 85,000agents worldwide associated withColdwell.

Local ERA real estatechanges ownershipERA High Pointe Realty recentlyacquired ownership of ERA TheConderman Group.

The new ownership team con-sists of Andy Carson, Ricci Dillon,Katie Wolf and Jean Bigbee Hill.

ERA High Pointe Realty has 16licensed Realtors. The company isat 1430 Poyntz Ave.

Noteworthy NewsNoteworthy News

What would your Chamber bumper sticker say?

Are you retired* but still want to be involved and active?

You’ll connect with a wide variety of interesting and talentedpeople, including many of Manhattan’s key decision-makers.You’ll be able to get involved in committees and events thatlet you contribute your time and talent.

Would you like to learn more? Contact Kim Dahlsten,Director of Membership Development, (785) 776-8829 [email protected] .

* Retired individuals are defined as having no current business affiliation.

Did You Know?

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

Thousands of referrals are made through the Chamber website monthly. More and moreconsumers are using the internet to find businesses. Last year 55,834 completed searcheswere made in the online business directory seeking member business information.


ERA High Pointe Realty1430 Poyntz Avenue(785) 539-3737

www.teamhighpointe.com

Ribbon CuttingsRibbon Cuttings

JNT Company LLC616 Fort Riley Boulevard

(888) 738-9213www.jntcompany.com

Briggs Buick GMC2312 Stagg Hill Road(855) 979-3986

www.briggsbuickgmc.com

This two hour seminar isinteractive, enthusiastic andoffers dozens of ideas thatare tried and true, a bit wild,and a bit creative. The audi-ence is a large part of thisseminar. Clear examples ofcustomer service that yourteam can take away andimplement within an hour ofreturning to work.

Building customers for life isan opportunity with each ofyour employees, with each

phone call, with each email,and with each customerthat walks in your frontdoor.

Customers, guests,patients, clients, vendors,suppliers and more, all needto be reminded the value ofeach contact, and how thatspecific contact can be partof the success of your business.

Warning: David’s programs willnot cause drowsiness!

For program details, cost orto register, contact theChamber office at 785-776-8829 or by email [email protected] [email protected].

DON’T MISS OUT -Leadership for BusinessSuccess by David K.

Aaker Wednesday, October 2111:30 am – 1:00 pm

Manhattan Country ClubReservations required

Leadership is woven througheach organization, associa-tion, company and industry.Leadership is not just aresponsibility, it is also anopportunity and is in eachperson on your payroll.Delegation, community, listening skills and ethics arejust a few of the ingredientsshared in this program.

The Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce presents

Turning Service into Sales by David K. Aaker

Date: Thursday, October 22, 2015

Time: 9:00-11:00 am OR 1:30-3:30 pm (sessions will be identical)

Location: Manhattan Conference Center410 South 3rd Street

Early Bird: Member exclusive rate of $30 is available to Manhattan Chamber members registered by August 17

Cost: After August 18 $45 for Manhattan Chamber members and $60 for non-members

For more information or to register for the seminar, contact the Chamber office by email at [email protected] or call 785-776-8829.

Registration cancellation/refund deadline is October 14. No refunds will be issued for requests received after thecancellation deadline.

Did You Know?Breaking News for Chamber Members! Consumers are 80% more likely to buy fromchamber members! A national survey of 2,000 adults reveals that a business that is amember of a local chamber of commerce is enjoying increasing favorability. In the sec-ond such survey in five years, The Schapiro Group found positive attitudes among adultsin the 2012 have increased over the very favorable findings of the first study in 2007.

little apple business review - june 2015

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