2008 Update April

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Ellsworth-Kanopolis Area Chamber of Commerce (ellsworthkschamber.net)

 @Nick’s Notes: 2008 April Update #875

Office hours: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm

To:  Chamber Member   

CHAMBER BOARD BUSINESS

At their regular March board meeting the board of directors approved the following:

·         The ad hoc Christmas Committee Chairperson, Ms. Muchow’s, report. The report sets the date for the annual Christmas celebration on Saturday, December 20th. (see Christmas 2008, pge 2)

·         Kansas Wesleyan University Chorale concert on Wednesday, April 23, 7:30pm at the EHS Performing Arts Center. (See Concert page 2)

·         Sponsorship of the Culpepper & Merriweather Circus to be held at the Ellsworth Recreation Center grounds on Thursday, May 29^th. (See Circus page 2)

·         Change of May meeting date and noon luncheon to Monday, May 19^th, due to the Memorial Day holiday on the 26^th.

In other business the board:

• Received a report from guest Brenda Chelvan, Globalink Inc., regarding plans for upgrading the chamber web site to include photos of the business and other potential improvements.
• Reviewed plans for the April noon luncheon schedule with Greg Schmidt, Sales Manager, Eagle Communications TV, as the speaker. (See April Noon Luncheon page 2). For the May noon luncheon

Linda Denning, Editor/Publisher, Ellsworth County Independent-Reporter, will be the speaker.

·         Was advised by the director that the radio commercial promoting Ellsworth will begin playing in April on radio stations in Salina, Great Bend and Russell. The spots will continue in May and June as in-kind membership funds will allow.      

  BUSINESS “BUZZ”

2008 NEW MEMBER

We are pleased to welcome and congratulate H & B Communications, Inc., 108 N. Main Street, Holyrood, as new chamber Friend members. D. J. and her brother Rob are 3^rd generation owners in the Koch family business which began in 1925. D. J. and Rob’s spouses and children are also involved in the business.  H & B’s primary business was and still remains an independent telephone service provider – with service in Holyrood, Bushton and Dorrance.  Telephone service in Claflin and Ellinwood have since been added. Cable TV service is provided in Holyrood, Bushton, Dorrance, Lorraine, Claflin, Little River, and Chase, as well as high speed internet services. H & B has also diversified with consumer electronics featuring Sony products, including their High Definition television line. DJ invites you to stop by and see the latest cutting edge technology in their consumer electronics showroom. She says, “H & B truly is bringing technology to your doorstep.”  Adding H & B to our Communications business directory web page provides our area with a comprehensive list of providers of these types of communication services for families seeking to relocate to our area. They will also appear on our web page Gift and Home & Garden listings. H & B can be reached at 785-252-4000 (800-432-8296); email djn@hbcomm.net; website www.hbcomm.net. We encourage D. J., Rob and their associates to participate in any of our chamber activities as time will allow.

 

Unless we have within us that which is above us we will soon yield to the pressures around us.

 

RELOCATIONS & NEW BUSINESS

• Chamber Member Shannon Mog, Reliant Roofing, LLC, has moved from his home office to his property at 122 N. Douglas.  Shannon will be marketing his roofing business as well as SLM Investments, LLC and Livinity-A Business Opportunity. His sister Season is the office manager.  A ribbon cutting and open house is being planned for June 19^th. The telephone number is 472-3900; email reliantroofing@att.net. We welcome Shannon and Season to historic downtown Ellsworth.

 

• Agent Joey Crome, New York Life Insurance Company, has moved from his home office to the second floor at 122 N. Douglas.  Joey offers Life Insurance, Long Term Care, Annuities, Retirement Income, Disability and Business Insurance/Benefits. He can be reached at 785-747-6513; or email jcrome@ft.newyorklife.com. We welcome Joey to our downtown neighborhood.

 

NEW CONTACT

Friend member Hospice Care of Kansas has a new representative for our area, Consultant Kacey Burse. She replaces Bob Jones in the Salina office whom we introduced in the February update. We welcome and encourage Kacey to attend our chamber functions whenever possible.  

It you think it’s hard to meet new people, pick up the wrong golf ball.

2008 RENEWALS 

 

Thanks for the following chamber annual renewal investments:

Friend: Trade Wind Energy   

Associates:  Eugene C. Jarus, DDS and Ellsworth Area Arts Council.

 

 CHRISTMAS 2008

After reviewing surveys returned by downtown retailers, the Ad hoc Christmas Planning Committee has set Saturday, December 22^nd as the official celebration of Christmas in Ellsworth.  Plans call for activities beginning at noon with entertainment, Santa Claus, and prize drawings throughout the afternoon. The parade is scheduled for 5:30pm followed by the Ellsworth County Independent-Reporter’s major cash drawing. Activities for children and wrapping of packages by students are ideas also being considered. 

The real secret of staying young is being too busy to think about it.

CONCERT

The Chamber board of directors is sponsoring the Kansas Wesleyan University Chorale in concert under the direction of former Ellsworth instructor Ken Hakoda. Nine Ellsworth area students are members of the Chorale which has recently completed a concert tour to California.  The date is Wednesday, April 23^rd at the EHS Performing Arts Center, 7:30 pm.  The doors will open at 7:00. Admission will be free-will.

 

CIRCUS

The Chamber board has signed an agreement with the Culpepper & Merriweather Circus for two May 29th performances, 5:00 and 7:30 pm. The agreement required a $290 sponsor fee which may be refunded depending on the number of adult tickets that are sold.  Since there has not been a circus in Ellsworth for some time the board felt that it has a good potential for a fund raiser.  Advance ticket sales are the key to success as the chamber will receive a larger percentage of sales than from the gate. Advance prices are $6 and $8 as opposed to $7 and $11 respectively, at the gate.  The board will complete plans for the sale of tickets at their April board meeting. In addition to local sales, the circus will do telephone marketing of children’s tickets to local businesses. I have been advised that the marketers will begin contacting businesses sometime within the next 2 weeks.  We will receive credit for any of those ticket sales and will be responsible for delivering and collecting the money. Businesses will have various options for distribution of the tickets purchased.  The circus web site is www.cmcircus.com. Check it out and watch the tent set-up video.   

 

APRIL NOON LUNCHEON

 The April 28^th noon luncheon will be held at the Ellsworth Golf Course meeting room with Greg Schmidt, Sales Manager, Eagle Communications TV, as the guest speaker.  Students from EHS will be recognized.  The Pizza Hut will cater the lunch.  Invitations will be forthcoming. The board is pleased with the response from the first two lunches with approximately 40 attendees at each session.

It really doesn’t matter who wears the pants in the family as long as there is money in the pockets.

 

RANCH RODEO

The El-Kan Western Riders Ranch Rodeo is to be held on Saturday, April 26th at the El-Kan Western Riders Arena. The cowgirl’s event starts at 10:00 am with Ranch Horse Show competition at 2:00 pm. The men ride at 7:00 pm. El-Kan President Alan Stefek has indicated that the expenses for the rodeo are covered so there will be no admission charge at the gate. This could enhance attendance and provide a number of visitors to the community throughout the day.

 

NUPTIALS

Downtown business woman and chamber member Kelvi Peschka, Lux Interiors, will wed Ellsworth native, Karlton Place at St. Paul’s Evangelical Church on Saturday, April 26^th at 4:00 pm. I invite our members to join us in congratulating Kelvi and Karlton.

Marriage would be pretty dull without a cross word.  Here’s an example: Kelvi: “I’ll admit I’m wrong if you’ll admit I’m right.” Karlton: “O.K .You go first.” Kelvi: “You’re right.”

 

SAMPLER FESTIVAL

The 2008 Kansas Sampler Festival is being held at the Concordia City Park on Saturday, May 3, 10am-5pm and Sunday May 4, 10am-4pm. The festival is about architecture, art, commerce, cuisine, geography, history and people. It is an exceptional showcase for all of the counties in Kansas. The Ellsworth County booth is sponsored by Smoky Hills Development Corporation, Ellsworth-Kanopolis Chamber of Commerce and the National Drovers Hall of Fame.  Volunteers are needed to man the booth. Items for booth visitors are being provided by Wilson (mini-kolaches), Holyrood (wheat bags), Kanopolis (salt), the historical society (cow patty cookies), brochures from the chamber and copies of the Independent-Reporter’s KanHistique publication.  Other items will be added before the event. According to Jan Essick both days’ schedules are in need of some volunteers in order to have some relief for the few who will be there. Anyone needing information on volunteering may contact Ms. Essick at 472-4617 or call the chamber office.

It’s not what happens to us that matters, but how we meet it.

CHAMBER GATHERIN

We have no gatherin’s scheduled for May and July-November. Anyone interested in hosting, please contact the office.

 

GIFT CHECKS

In March there were two deposits totaling $145.00. The bank processed 57checks with a value of $660.00. Gift checks still outstanding total $ 4347.00

Today, we have three kinds of people in the world: the haves, the have-nots and the charge-its.

 

CHAMBER MARKETNG REMINDER

 Businesses wanting to get special information out to chamber members need only provide material through emails that can be forwarded and downloaded to be copied and faxed to members without email capabilities. Sorry we cannot do mailings but the two methods listed reach over 90% of our membership.

 

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

April 17 Thursday, Ellsworth-Kanopolis Chamber of Commerce Monthly Gatherin’, Morford Greenhouse, 1376 18^th Rd, Kanopolis, 5:30 – 6:30 p.m.

April 18 Friday, VFW Auxiliary Garage Sale, 8:00 am – 5 pm.

April 19 Saturday, VFW Auxiliary Garage Sale, 8 am – 3 pm.

April 23 Wednesday, KWU Chorale Concert, EHS Performing Arts Center, 7:30pm, free-will offering.

April 26 Saturday Ellsworth County Medical Center Health Fair, 9 am – noon, Administrative Building

April 26 Saturday, El-Kan Western Riders Rodeo, 10 am – cowgirls; 2 pm –ranch horse show; 7 pm. Cowboys

April 28 Monday, chamber monthly noon luncheon, Ellsworth Golf Course meeting room.

April 28 Monday, Ellsworth-Kanopolis Chamber of Commerce monthly meeting, 6:00 pm.

May 5 Monday World Day of Prayer, Court House, 12:00 – 12:30

 

 

 Pass this update on to others!

2008 Update March

2008 Update Feb

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Ellsworth-Kanopolis Area Chamber of Commerce (ellsworthkschamber.net)

 @Nick’s Notes:  First Edition 2008 Update #872

Office hours: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm

To:  Chamber Member  

CHAMBER BOARD BUSINESS

At their regular January monthly meeting the board of directors conducted the following business:

Approved: 

a     Affirmation of 2007 goals carryover; Membership improvement; Partner in Downtown/Beautification Project; Conduct Fund Raisers and Scenic Byway project.

a     Date and time of board meetings on last Monday of each month at 6:00 pm.

a     President Eck’s appointment of board members Megan Muchow, Chelle Denton and volunteer Ellsworth County Clerk Ona Crawford to the 2008 Ad Hoc Audit Committee.

a     2008 Bed Tax tourism projects for submission to the Ellsworth Tourism Committee February 1.

a      Adding the Salina Greater Foundation link: smokyhillscf.org, to the chambers web page.

a     Press release in response to Dennis Katzenmeier’s Ranch Rodeo press release with a notification that the chamber would include a one-time $500 media radio grant to the El-Kan Western Riders Association and the release to be sent to the Salina Journal, Hutchinson News and Great Bend Tribune, and chamber members.  

a     Policy 408 – Committee Structure

In other business the board:

1.       Reviewed the director’s preliminary 2008 budget with final review and approval following receipt of any city bed tax funding.

2.        Completed plans for the February annual meeting. (see ANNUAL MEETING page 2)

3.       Recognized new Associate organization member United Methodist Church, Linda Toms, Pastor.

4.       Gave consensus approval to the director’s draft of the page for Ellsworth-Kanopolis in the Amazing 100 Miles brochure being revised. 50,000 of the 32 page brochures will be printed for distribution in the next two years.

5.       Agreed to conduct a board of director’s 2008 goal setting retreat on Monday, January 28^th.

6.        Concurred with the director’s intent to provide a customer parking reminder in his January update. (see DOWNTOWN PARKING page 3)

This month features aging quips

    

WELCOME & CONGRATULATIONS TO NEW 2008 MEMBER:

Associate:  United Methodist Church, Pastor Linda Toms, 322 N. Douglas, 472-3870, umcew@sbcglobal.net. We invite Pastor Toms and her associates to attend and participate in our chamber sponsored events.

 

2007 RENEWALS  

Thanks for the following chamber annual renewal investments:

Full Members: Acme Brick Co.; Backroom Ceramics; Best Western Garden Prairie Inn; Boots Plants & Flower Center; Brook Insurance ; Buchholz, Inc.; C & R Old West Trading Post; Chisholm Trail Apartments; Citizens State Bank & Trust, Inc.; Cliff’s Body Shop, Inc.; Clubine & Rettele, Chtd; Crossroads Restaurant & Catering; Custom Care; Eck Welding & Repair; Ellsworth CO-OP; Ellsworth Service Center; Ellsworth County Independent-Reporter; F & M Drug; Farm Bureau Financial Services; Finke Retail Liquor; First Bank Kansas;  G. Derril Gwinner, DO, LLC; Gene’s Heartland Foods; H & R Block; Home Lumber Co.; Independent Salt Co.; Karst Enterprises; Kirkham Michael & Associates, Inc;  Kevin’s Barber Shop; Kurt Williams, DDS; Lyons Federal Savings; Maico Industries; Martin’s Pro Auto; Mom’s Diner; Mosaic; Morford Green House; National Drovers Hall of Fame; Nece Electric; Parsons Funeral Home; Pizzaco; Post Rock Abstract & Title, Inc.; Radio Shack; Robson’s Card & Gift Shop; Robl Farm Supply, Inc.; Rolling Hills Electric Cooperative; Torkelson Chiropractic, P.A.; True Value Hardware; Seitz Drug Co.; Slechta Enterprises; Star Barks, U.S. D. #327;  and Whitmer Insurance & Financial Planning.

 

Friend:  Conklin Cars Salina; Edward Jones Financial Planning; Long McArthur, Inc; Rancho Milagro; and School House Auto;   

Associates: American Legion Post #174; Bev Connally; Bill Gwinner; Dave Brownback; Don Hanson; Ellsworth Area Arts Council; Ellsworth County Historical Society; Ellsworth Lions Club; George Jones; Heather Barta; JH Robbins Memorial Library; James Morford; Lewis McAtee; Machelle Connally; Nancy Lamia; Nick Slechta; St. Bernard’s Church; and Wendell Truhlar.

Associates 2^nd Business: Ampride, Citizens State Bank Drive-in; First Bank Kansas, Kanopolis; Lobby Shop; and Lorraine Country Store.

In-Kind:  Eagle Radio, Great Bend/Salina; Russell Radio, and Rocking M Radio, and Great Bend/Salina.

 It’s scary when you start making the same noises as your coffeemaker.

BUSINESS LOCATION CHANGE

Kelvi Peschka, owner of Lux Interiors, has announced her new location at 231 N. Douglas. She will continue her tanning service and her balloon menagerie while sharing space with the present occupants, Richelle’s and Darr’s. 472-3651-kelvip@hotmail.com.

 

RENOVATIONS/EXPANSIONS

Current major renovations underway in Ellsworth are:  The Ellsworth County Medical Center, 1604 Aylward which is progressing very well. Offices in the medical center are being transferred to the new Administrative Building (Century Building) and will continue until the project is completed.    

      In downtown:

a     Kurt Williams, DDS, has two properties being restored-renovated on the south 200 block of Douglas.

a     Last month Mosaic finalized the acquisition of the old Gene's IGA building.  Remodeling is planned to begin by the end of January and is predicted to take anywhere from 8 to 10 months.  Fuqua & Doerksen Construction of Inman, Kansas has been chosen as the general contractor.  The intent of the new building for Mosaic is to house all administration offices as well as being utilized by the day site services.  Mosaic will continue to use the existing Lobby Shop at 306 N. Douglas and is looking for ideas to expand current productions.  Thanks to Deena Dusburg for furnishing this report.  

a     This past week some activity was noted across the street at the National Drover’s Hall of Fame building which means serious renovation will begin in the near future.

These major investments in Ellsworth are significant to the local economy now and in the future. Ellsworth is, indeed, fortunate to have individuals and organizations with the foresight and faith in the potential for successful operations in our communities. As a lifelong resident I am pleased that such a major foundation is being laid for future generations. In a previous update I referred to some of our talented young people returning to Ellsworth to establish a business and furthering careers with intentions of remaining.  These significant investments may foster similar feelings among our present young people in considering where their life goals may best be fulfilled after furthering their education.  At most, it is very encouraging.    

My memory’s is not a sharp as it used to be. Also, my memory is not a sharp as it used to be.

 

NEW MANAGER

If you have not met her yet, I encourage you stop by Casey’s General Store and meet their new manager, Krystina Walls. She began her Ellsworth duties the first of the year. Krys and her husband Trent had purchased a home here while living in Hays. She is happy to have found work after moving in November. The family consists of five children, four of whom are attending our schools. They are 2^nd graders, Christian and Jasmine, 4^th grader, Mercedes and 5^th grader Jared. Luke, age 3, is the youngest. Trent is currently a graduate student at Neuman College, Wichita. I asked Krys about their children’s transition to our schools and she indicated that the kids just love it. We welcome Krys, Trent and family to our communities.  

 

ANNUAL MEETING

The board completed their final planning with the selection of this year’s theme, “Working Together to be Great in 2008”; approved Butch’s B-B-Q for the banquet meal; confirmed Susan Janzen Nickerson as the speaker; set prices at $18 for members and $20 for public; agreed not to provide reserved seating except for full table reservations and other specified reserves. Tickets will be available at the chamber office.

Know how to prevent sagging? Just eat till the wrinkles fill out.

CONCESSION STAND HOSTS

Board members; Amy and Pete Eck, Megan Muchow and director Slechta as well as Ambassadors; Heather Barta, Janet Carswell, Bev Connally and George Jones supported  the chamber’s services at Tuesday night’s basketball game. With assistance of the regular school workers it was an interesting and fun evening.

 

GIFT CHECKS

In December there were nine deposits totaling $6,815. The bank processed 323 checks for a total of $4,190. The checks still outstanding total $6,414. If history repeats, January will also be a large deposit month. Many businesses did very well this holiday season. I am repeating a plea I made earlier this year to the businesses on the gift check participants handout. That is: to instruct your employees to PLEASE write, stamp or otherwise identify your business on the “pay to the order of” line. I make it a policy to go over every cancelled check to determine if there are any non-participating businesses accepting our checks. I also like to see how many businesses are benefiting from this “shop at home” program. The cancellations on the back are so small and poorly duplicated that I cannot ascertain the depositor. This is not a big deal when there are only 50-75 checks. But 323 was time consuming to say the least. Nearly 25% were left blank. I thank you for this consideration.

These days about half the stuff in my shopping cart says, “For fast relief.”

DOWNTOWN PARKING

Most of us who work downtown do not give much thought to downtown parking as long as we don’t impede the ability of our customers and clients to reach our places of business. It appears that most owners and employees recognize this common courtesy. The street that has potential possible consideration is West and East 1^st Street.  There are nine businesses on these blocks that rely heavily on walk-in traffic. Parallel parking takes more space than on Douglas. This is a reminder for employers to encourage employees to observe the spaces near these storefronts even if it means an extra block of walking. I know the owners will be very appreciative.                       

Reporters interviewing a 104-year-old woman: “And what do you think is the best thing about being 104?” the reporter asked. She simply replied, “No peer pressure.”

GOOD NEIGHBOR

This week I was experiencing a near melt down of my Quickbooks Accounting System. I could not make an entry before getting the “Fatal Error” message and an immediate shutdown. I had visions of having to type gift and regular checks until I could find the answer. Anita Hoffhines stopped by and I told her of my plight. She took a look at the problem, which was an obvious memory fault. She went back to her office to seek some possible solutions through her Quickbooks system.  She came back with several possibilities and applied the first one. It dumped a huge batch of unnecessary records in storage. Problem corrected. Before, it was taking 3 minutes for Quickbooks to open as well as closing. It is now closer to 5 seconds. What a relief. My sincere thanks for Anita taking the good neighbor philosophy beyond a normal calling. 

THE SENILITY PRAYER: Grant me the senility to forget the people I never liked anyway, the good fortune to run into the ones I do, and the eyesight to tell the difference.

KUDOS

Our thanks to Vi Richards, Richard’s Cleaners, for the annual dry-cleaning of our Santa suit at no cost to the Chamber. This was another very active Christmas season for the suit. I hope some of you will let Vi know we appreciate it.

 

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Jan 24 – Ellsworth-Kanopolis Chamber of Commerce Monthly Gatherin’, Lux Interiors, 8 am, 231 N. Douglas.

Jan 28 – Ellsworth-Kanopolis Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors goals planning retreat, Ellsworth golf course meeting room, 6:00 pm.

Feb 18 – Ellsworth-Kanopolis Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors 60^th Annual Meeting, 6 pm, EHS Commons.

Feb 21- Monthly Chamber Gatherin’, ALCO, 8:00 am.

 

 

Don’t forget your valentine on February 14^th with the perfect gift – “Chamber Gift Checks”                                                                                                                                                                                            Pass this update on to employees

Ellsworth-Kanopolis Area Chamber of Commerce, Inc.

114-1/2 N. Douglas

Ellsworth, KS  67439

 

A ranch rodeo is alive and well ... despite claims

            Ranch rodeo competition is still alive, in spite of reports from End of the Trails Ranch Rodeo Committee General Chairman Dennis Katzenmeier. The dates have been set for April 25-26, and the organization committing to the effort is the El-Kan Western Riders Association.

            "While Katzenmeier aired reports that the Ellsworth-Kanopolis Chamber of Commerce was killing the event by pulling administrative and monetary support, he failed to mention critical historical elements, which lead to the Chamber’s decision to no longer offer administrative support," Chamber President Amy Eck said.

For example, at the June 19, 2006, meeting, Ellsworth-Kanopolis Area Chamber of Commerce Director Nick Slechta was commissioned by the board of directors to write a letter to Katzenmeier expressing concerns about the Ranch Rodeo’s organizational capabilities and the questionable financial benefit for continued operation under the auspices of the Chamber. That letter also requested Katzenmeier to keep in contact with the chamber, especially when the Ranch Rodeo was nearing. However, there was no response and no representative at any meeting for a year, even though Katzenmeier was made aware of Chamber board meetings.

            A letter dated Dec. 6, 2007, to the Ranch Rodeo Committee, included a summary of income and expenses from 1999, when then-Chamber President Katzenmeier proposed the Ranch Rodeo as a fund-raiser, and the event began with the Chamber’s assistance. The records from earlier years were difficult for the Chamber director to discern; however, after reviewing financial statements and meeting minutes, Slechta was able to draft a letter to the committee.

            The letter, in part, stated: "The board of directors in the 1999-2003 time period did not look at the budget adjustments based on the plus and minus years and accepted the losses or gains in the general operating budget. There was nothing in the minutes to suggest any set asides as a result of a positive balance. The 2004 board decided not to follow that philosophy and made the decision to establish a savings account to earmark the $1,280 net gain for possible overruns in the future even though it could have been placed in the general fund as in the past. It was needed in 2006 when the rodeo experienced an $888 loss."

            Eck said, "The Chamber looks for events to sponsor that not only bring people to town but that also are not an economic drain on the Chamber. The Chamber must operate like any other downtown business – looking to cut the things that cost more money than volunteer time can cover and look for more positive venues. The Chamber has an obligation to its membership to make sure we’re using their money, which keeps the Chamber doors open, to the best of our abilities on sound business ventures. If after a period of time an event cannot make enough money for start-up the next year, then we needed to assess that event and see if it is something we are willing to put our time and effort in. We did not leave the Ranch Rodeo to dwindle and die. Our director was in contact with the El-Kan Western Riders in November before the board made its decision to cease as administrative and financial support for the Ranch Rodeo. And Mr. Katzenmeier was made aware of that before he began his reports to the contrary."

Eck also retorted Katzenmeier’s statement in a letter dated Jan. 11, 2008, from Katzenmeier to area supporters, "The Chamber never said, ‘the rodeo weekend had no economic impact on Ellsworth economy or its historic heritage.’ Any time an event brings around 250 to 500 people to town, you know they will either buy a lunch at a local restaurant or fuel when they leave. To say there is no economic impact on Ellsworth would be ridiculous."

            "If Mr. Katzenmeier had placed as much time and energy on finding another sponsor instead of demeaning the local chamber, he might have been surprised at how much support he would have found in the area for his event," Eck said.

At the Dec. 3 meeting, the Chamber board offered Katzenmeier support, while not administrative, of in-kind sponsorship in the amount of $500 if the Ranch Rodeo committee could reorganize. Since that committee has decided to not continue with the End of the Trails Ranch Rodeo, in a show of support for a ranch rodeo as a local event, the chamber board of directors at their monthly meeting Monday night approved a one-time $500 in-kind donation to the El-Kan Western Riders. Of course the Chamber will continue its administrative support – offered to all local events -- through news releases, web postings of the event and signage.

            "We wish the El-Kan Western Riders the best of luck and hope their group is able to mold their ranch rodeo into a profitable event that will continue to breathe life into Ellsworth’s future through its historic past," Eck said. "I just hope that any negative press Mr. Katzenmeier has promoted will not adversely affect the El-Kan Western Riders’ efforts."

 

 

Update 770 November

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Ellsworth-Kanopolis Area Chamber of Commerce (ellsworthkschamber.net)

 @Nick’s Notes:  November Update #770 Office hours: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm

To:  Chamber Member  

CHAMBER BOARD BUSINESS

At their regular monthly meeting on November 12th the board conducted the following business

            Approved:

a     Nominating Committee’s slate of candidates for the board of directors’ 2008 election: Jon Halbgewachs, Chele Denton, Ken Arnhold, Tony Kirby, Luke Murrow and  Danny D. Urban

      (see Nominations below)

a     President Morford’s three person Nominating Committee for the 2008 slate of officers; Caleb Schultz, Ch, Megan Muchow and Bill Finke.

a     Distribution of Ambassador Club’s share of the September hamburger feed.

a     Year-to-date, October 31^st Financial reports.

a     Changes to the Kansas Cattle Town brochures for upcoming proposed revisions by the coalition.

a     Revised Procedure 102 for the use of chamber event signs for public garage/yard sales.

a     Removing the “Living is Good in Ellsworth County” tourism brochure from the chamber inventory pending review and possible revision through Smoky Hill Economic Development.

a     Waiving of bylaw, Article IV, Section III, Para 3, “Secretary’s notice of slate of nominees and right to petition.”

In other business, the board requested the director write a thank you letter to ECF for their construction of an exceptional conference table for the chamber office. They also approved, by consensus, the mailing of a survey in conjunction with the voting ballot. (see Survey below)

 

NOMINATIONS

The following candidates and their business association have agreed to fulfill the responsibilities of board member if elected: Jon Halbgewachs, Kirkham Michael & Associates;  Chele Denton, ALCO Discount Store; Ken Arnhold, Superintendent, USD #327; Tony Kirby, Dollar General;  Danny D. Urban, Ellsworth County Medical Center and Luke Murrow, First Bank Kansas. Ballots will be forthcoming.

Most of us never realize that we have the right to remain silent until after we’re in trouble.

SURVEY

With the upcoming election of new board members and changes that will occur, the board believes that an information gathering survey on member expectations, ideas for improvement, etc. may be helpful as the board reorganizes at the December meeting. The last survey to measure member satisfaction was conducted in 2004. However, it had a very minimal response with the majority expressing “very satisfied.” We encourage and thank you in advance for your participation.

  

  BUSINESS “BUZZ”  

 

2007-2008 RENEWALS

Thanks for the following Chamber member annual renewal: Full: City Plumbing/Heating & Air Conditioning.

 

NON-RENEWAL

M & D Service, Kanopolis did not renew their 2007-2008 membership.

Today we have three kinds of people in the world: the haves, the have-nots, and the charge-its.

 

2007 HOLIDAY CELEBRATION

The Ellsworth-Chamber of Commerce Christmas Committee, Georgina Bates, Chairman, and members, Ken and Alice Robson, Josie Roehrman, Wanda Morford, Nancy Johnson and Linda Denning have completed plans for the Christmas kick off celebration on Monday, November 26 at 5:00 pm. This year’s event theme is “Keeping the Tradition Alive 1867-2007. Kelvi Peschka has been appointed chairman for the Christmas parade. Events will kickoff at 5:00 with lighting of the Christmas Tree at the Hodgden House Museum (carolers welcome); food court on west 1^st Street, kiddy train rides, east 1^st Street; Santa and Ms. Claus at the Citizens State Bank, open houses, registrations and drawings.

 CITIZEN OF THE YEAR 2007

The Citizen of the year selection committee: Josie Roehrman, Mark Parsons and Caleb Schultz, is seeking nominations for the 2007 Citizen of the Year. The due date for nominations is Monday, December 3rd. Voting chamber members are reminded to include as much specific information as possible, i.e., types of activities, estimated dates and  years of service, and other relevant information. Keep in mind that the description is the basis for the introduction of the winner at the annual meeting. The winners in the past 10 years were: Mark & Josie Roehrman; Mark Parsons; Don & Pat Bender; Scott Moore & Linda Kohls; Ken & Alice Robson; Thomas Zouzas; Karl Gaston; Anne Grothusen; Karma Aylward; and Roger Thompson. Address is: Citizen of the Year – Ellsworth-Kanopolis Chamber of Commerce - P.O. Box 315 – Ellsworth, KS 67439. No e-mails or faxes please.

A happy marriage exists when the couple is as deeply in love as in debt!

RADIO PROMOTION

The radio jingle we had produced to promote Ellsworth has been placed on our chamber website. It is located below our front page under the blog.

 

WELCOME BAGS

Our merchant’s welcome bags for new residents are nearly depleted. I will need 20 items for the usual refills. For first time participants, please, no large items such as coolers, cups etc. With over 60 items to fill, the plastic bag is packed. Due to some inventory on hand the following businesses  do not have to respond unless you want to change your promotional item: Brooks Financial Services; Casey’s General Store; Cliff’s Body Shop; Custom Care; DQ Brazier; Independent Reporter; Ellsworth Federal Credit Union;  Gene’s Heartland Foods; Ideal Realty; Millwood Realty; Smoky Valley Appliance, and True value Hardware. Items must be in the chamber office no later than Monday, the  19^th  to be included in the next distribution.

No one ever ruined his eyesight by looking at the brighter side of things.

GIFT CHECKS

In October there were two deposits totaling $330. The bank processed 50 checks totaling $705. The total amount of checks still outstanding is $3,904.09. Gift check sales are down considerably this year versus 2006. Hopefully, the holidays will boost the sales significantly.

Television is called a medium because so much of it is neither rare nor well done.

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS

November 15 Lincoln County Leadership, Chamber office, 1:30 pm. Jonathan Mitchell, Rob Fillion and Nick, presenters.

November 15, Ellsworth-Kanopolis Area Chamber monthly gatherin’, Citizens State Bank & Trust, 8 am.

November 15 North Central Kansas Regional Tourism Council meeting, Orozco’s, 6:00 pm. 472-3059.

November 22 Thanksgiving. Chamber office closed

November 25 Ellsworth Purple Power Catbackers annual Holiday Tour of Homes, noon – 6:00 pm; Soup and dessert, noon – 2:00 pm, VFW Hall.  472-5005

November 26 Ellsworth Holiday Opening Celebration, 5:00 pm

 

1947-2007 “Diamond Jubilee Year”

PASS IT ON!  Please pass this update on to employees and friends!

 

            Wishing you and yours a safe, peaceful                                   and enjoyable Thanksgiving holiday!

Update 769 October

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Ellsworth-Kanopolis Area Chamber of Commerce (ellsworthkschamber.net)

 @Nick’s Notes:  October Update #769

Office hours: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm

To:  Chamber Member  

CHAMBER BOARD BUSINESS

At their regular monthly meeting on October 8^th the board conducted the following business

            Approved:

a     President Morford’s appointments to the Ad Hoc Citizen of the Year committee; Caleb Schultz, Josie Roehrman and Mark Parsons.

a     The distribution of proceeds from the Celebrity Pig Kiss’n contest, less expenses, to the National Drover’s Hall of Fame Association.

      Acknowledged:

      “Diamond Jubilee Year” Full Members; Rodney & Janet Kempke, Ellsworth Packing, Inc. and           Connie Terry, Mom’s Diner, Kanopolis. (see 2007 New Members below).

In other business, the board approved by consensus, the inclusion of a review of the corporation’s annual 990 EZ federal report by Clubine Rettele, in the 2008 budget.

  

  BUSINESS “BUZZ”  

 

 2007 NEW MEMBERS

1) Last month I introduced Connie Terry owner of Mom’s Diner as a new soon-to-open business. To my pleasure, Connie stopped in on the Friday before her opening on October 3, to confirm a chamber membership. We are pleased that she recognizes the value this partnership with our members and the services we provide.  I shared all of the aspects of her new dining operation in my September update. Word has it that her “all from scratch” offerings are well worthy of  a visit. I can, personally, attest to a recent delectable Blue Plate Special. We wish Connie much success in her Kanopolis business venture. The diner is open Mon-Sat, 5a-8p and Sun, 6a-2p. For reservations or menu information her telephone # is 472-8985; or e-mail, cmterry60@aol.com.

2) We are pleased to also welcome Rodney and Janet Kempke, owners of Ellsworth Packing, Inc. Rodney and Janet have been operating the business since the retirement of former owner, JC Schritchfield. The Kempke’s are carrying on the tradition of excellence in custom meat processing. Their products include: smoked sausage and alma cheese. Tuesday and Friday are their fresh hamburger days.  We are fortunate to be able to add the packing plant to our chamber website to enhance the varied services and product availabilities in Ellsworth-Kanopolis to those seeking to visit or relocate here. Their office hours are Monday – Friday, 8-12 and 1-5. The telephone number is 472-4177. Ellsworth Packing, Inc and Mom’s Diner are participants in the chamber gift check program.

Present business membership is: Full members:  94; Friend Members:  20; In-Kind: 7 Total: 121   

Note: There have been 17 new business enrollments during this Diamond Jubilee Year. There is no planned membership drive but new memberships are anticipated before year end.

Anybody who thinks there must be a fire when there’s smoke has never tried to burn autumn leaves.

2007-2008 RENEWALS

Thanks for the following Chamber member annual renewals:  Homolka Grain & Supply, Inc. Jerzy Slomka, MD; and Friend member, Kansas Wesleyan University.

 

BUSINESS OWNERSHIP CHANGE

In-Kind Friend member, NRG Radio, Great Bend and Salina has undergone new ownership. The stations are now under the management of Rocking M Radio. Station managers are Ken Schamborn, Gt. Bend and Pat Foster, Salina. We appreciate their continued support of our chamber and our Ellsworth area events and activities.

During a grammar lesson, the teacher wrote on the blackboard: “I don’t have no fun at the seaside.”

She then turned around to her pupils and said to one, “Ronald, how should I correct that?”

“Get a boy friend,” he answered.

 

TELEPHONE DIRECTORIES

We have received a large shipment of 2008 ATT Central Kansas and a few North Central Kansas Area Wide Yellow Books. Stop by and pick up whatever you need for business or home.

 

Proverb: short sentences drawn through long experiences.

HALLOWEEN EVENT REMINDER

You have until October 20^th to enter your pet in the Star Barks Pet Grooming “full Halloween attire” photo contest. For your reservation, call 472-4557. What do you put on a parakeet?

 

NOMINATIONS

As indicated in the Chamber Chatter # 707 regarding the nominating process for the upcoming board member election, the committee, Amy Eck, Linda Denning and Anita Hoffhines will be seeking six applicants whose names will be submitted to the board of directors at the November 12^th Meeting. The election of three members will follow. It is said that a successful chamber of commerce operation is the result of  good leadership, enthusiasm and willingness to serve your community. Call one of the above today and prove it.

Talk is cheap because the supply is always greater than the demand.

CHAMBER GATHERIN”

Congratulations and thanks to Sherman, Hoffman and Hipp LC and associates for a delightful and informative chamber gatherin’ on the 12^th.  A very nice turnout had the opportunity to meet and welcome the firm’s newest addition to the staff, Patrick Hoffman, Attorney at Law. The update and handouts chronicling the firms growth from the 1800’s to present was certainly enlightening. The building, which includes a wall safe installed in the basement of this original site of Citizens State Bank and then the post office, is a rare and unique historic relic. Attendee CSB President Dave Brownback quipped, “We believe there is still money in there belonging to us.”  Everyone appeared to enjoy the hospitality and camaraderie of this monthly event. Next month we will be guests of the Citizens State Bank & Trust Co. (see CALENDER below)

 

 TOURISM ACTIVITY  

Category discontinued until April 2008

Sign on a milk truck: “All We Have We Owe To Udders.”

GIFT CHECKS

In September there were two deposits totaling $425. The bank processed 41 checks totaling $695. The total amount of checks still outstanding is $4,279.

 

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

October 25 – Immanuel Lutheran Church Annual Soup Supper, 5:00 – 7:00 pm. (Senior recognition, Shanelec Field at 7:00 pm, EHS vs Sacred Heart District Play-off.

S

 

 

November 2 - ECMC Auxiliary Annual Bazaar and Spaghetti Supper, American Legion Hall, 4:30 – 7:00 pm

November 3 -  Sunflower Civic Club, Kanopolis, Annual Turkey Bingo, Community Building, Food 6:00 pm,   Bingo 7:00 pm.

November 6 – United Methodist Church Bazaar, 2:00 pm, Soup Supper, 4:00 pm.

November 12 – Ellsworth-Kanopolis Chamber of Commerce Monthly Meeting, 6:00 pm, chamber office.

November 15 – Monthly Chamber Gatherin’, Citizens State Bank & Trust, 8:00 am.

“My job is almost impossible .It’s my boss. He docks me if I’m a minute late.

 And if I am ten minutes early, he charges me rent!”

HAPPY BOSS’S DAY!

 

1947-2007 “Diamond Jubilee Year”

 

 PASS IT ON!  Please pass this update on to employees and friends!