Volume 32 MISSION STATEMENT The mission of the Dodge City Area Chamber of Commerce is to enhance the business climate and improve the quality of life in Dodge City and the surrounding area for our members.
ORGANIZATION CORE VALUES IS THE LEADING BUSINESS ADVOCATE a united voice for business DEMONSTRATES INTEGRITY through words and actions FOCUSES ON VALUE member resources demonstrate a return on investment EDUCATES how business is good for community IS CUSTOMER FOCUSED we are here to serve our members ENCOURAGES CITIZEN ADVOCACY citizen participation to build a better Dodge City FACILITATES LEADERSHIP training ground for future leaders
April 2019
Issue 4
CHAMBER HOSTS ANOTHER SUCCESSFUL GOLF TOURNAMENT On Friday, April 12th, 100 golfers enjoyed a day of golf and comradery during the annual Chamber golf tournament. This year’s tournament took place at the Dodge City Country Club and the beautiful weather made for a great day of golf. This year’s winning team represented Phillips Chiropractic. The funds raised from the annual golf tournament help fund workshops, seminars, and trainings for Chamber members throughout the year.
IS TECHNOLOGY FOCUSED increase value to all members
THE CHAMBER IS VERY EXCITED TO WELCOME OUR MARCH NEW MEMBERS: Tidy Cleaning Service Michelle Salinas - Realtor
Pictured above: Golfers prepare to tee off for the 2019 Annual Chamber Golf Tournament at Dodge City Country Club.
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BOARD OF DIRECTORS OFFICERS
Michael Burns, Chairman of the Board Landmark National Bank Raul De La Toree, Vice-Chairman ServiceMaster Rapid Response
DIRECTORS
Michael Burns, Landmark National Bank Dr. R.C. Trotter Family Practice Associates of Western KS Alicia Edwards, DC Women’s Chamber Shane Laws, Victory Electric Lauren Morse, Fischer Chiropractic David Rebein, Rebein Brothers Law Simeon Russell, Cargill Greg Ruehle, Servi-Tech Chris Ragland, United Wireless Arena Raul De La Torre, ServiceMaster Rapid Response Randy Riekenberg, United Wireless Communications Gerald Miller, Black Hills Energy Jamie Kuehl, McDonald’s Restaurants Sergio Garcia, National Beef
The Business Advantage
April 2019
BENISH JOINS THE UNITED CAPITAL MANAGEMENT TEAM In 2019 Shannon Benish joined the United Capital Management family as a financial advisor in Dodge City. Shannon has been in the financial services industry since 1997. Shannon earned the designation of Financial Paraplanner Qualified Professional™ (FPQP™) in 2011 and holds her FINRA Series 7, 63 and 66 security registrations. Shannon is committed to developing long-term relationships with all of her clients. Born and raised in Kansas, Shannon's dedication to family and meaningful work are the result of her tight-knit family upbringing. Shannon graduated from Fort Hays State University. She married John in 2011 and have three beautiful children, Erin, Evan, and Sydney. After helping her daughter battle and become a cancer survivor, Shannon wrote the book, How to Help Someone with Cancer, and her book became a finalist in the National Indie Excellence Awards.
EX OFFICIO MEMBERS
John Bogner, Western Beverage Fred Dierksen, Superintendent USD 443 J.D. Gilbert, Ford County Joann Knight, DC/FC Dev Corp Director Jan Stevens, Executive Director Dodge City CVB Cherise Tieben, City of Dodge City Dr. Harold Nolte, Dodge City Community College
CHAMBER STAFF
Tara Burkhart, President tburkhart@dodgechamber.com Marisa Vargas, Membership Director mvargas@dodgechamber.com Joni Wittman, Events Director jwittman@dodgechamber.com Michelle Salinas, Office Manager msalinas@dodgechamber.com
OFFICE INFORMATION
Monday - Friday, 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Office (620) 227-3119 | (620) 227-2957 Fax 101 E. Wyatt Earp | PO Box 939 Dodge City, KS 67801 www.dodgechamber.com www.facebook.com/dcacc E-mail: info@dodgechamber.com
UPCOMING CHAMBER COFFEE hosted by
Dodge City Appliance 2610 Central Ave., Suite B
Tuesday, April 30 - 9:00 a.m. -10:30 a.m.
April 2019
The Business Advantage
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SUNFLOWER MONEY MARKET ACCOUNT FOR BUSINESSES OFFERS GREAT RATES Sunflower Bank announces its Mega Money Market savings account now offers great rates exclusively for businesses. The Mega Money Market account is designed to support businesses that need to keep cash reserves available so that they can make the most out of their long-term plans. With a 1.35% Annual Percentage Yield (APY) for balances of $250,000 and up, the Mega Money Market can help businesses create possibility from money market liquidity. As a community bank, Sunflower is committed to building relationships and providing services that support local economic growth and the account promotion is intended to open the door to new opportunities. The Mega Money Market is available to business customers depositing new money to the Bank and it also requires a checking account. All terms of the account are available at SunflowerBank.com/MegaMoneyMarket. More information on how to start saving for future business needs is available at local Sunflower Bank branches or from commercial relationship managers. About Us Operating as Sunflower Bank, First National 1870, and Guardian Mortgage, Sunflower Bank, N.A. provides financial solutions to the individual communities it serves. With approximately $4 billion in assets as of December 31, 2018, headquarters in Denver, bank locations in six states, and mortgage capabilities in more than 35 states, Sunflower Bank, N.A. provides a full range of relationship-focused services to meet personal, business, and wealth management financial objectives. Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender. First National 1870 and Guardian Mortgage are divisions of Sunflower Bank, N.A. To learn more visit SunflowerBank.com, FirstNational1870.com, or GuardianMortgageOnline.com.
Company: First Dental Job Title: Dental and Hygiene Assistant How to Apply: Send your resume to FirstDentalResume@gmail.com Company: Dodge City/Ford County Development Corp. Job Title: Assistant to the Director How to Apply: Apply online at www.dodgecity.org/careers. Additional information about this position is available at City Hall - 806 N. 2nd Ave. Company: Dodge City Country Club Job Title: Manager Duties: Oversee all staff (servers, bartenders, kitchen, pool, and event staff) as well as training and oversee day to day operations How to Apply: Apply in person at 1900 Country Club Drive, Dodge City, KS 67801
Company: Centera Bank Job Title: Customer Service Representative How to Apply: Interested individuals should apply in person at: Centera Bank, 2200 N. 14th Ave., Dodge City, KS 67801.
Does your business have job openings you would like to feature in the next Business Advantage? Email the Company Name, Job Title, How to Apply and any other relative information to info@dodgechamber.com
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The Business Advantage
April 2019
CATHOLIC CHARITIES TO HOST WINE TASTING EVENT The 18th Annual Catholic Charities Wine Tasting Event will be held on Friday, May 3, 2019, from 7:00 to 10:00 p.m. at the Great Bend Event Center, 3111 10th Street in Great Bend KS. Admission is $50 per person or $450 for a table of ten. The evening features a broad selection of wines, craft beers and spirits from around the world, delicious hors d'oeuvres prepared by MMM’ Cater That, live entertainment by Classical Guitarist, Richard J. Falcon Jr. and a large silent auction of interesting and creative items. A live auction kicks off with our auctioneer for the evening, T.R. Esfeld, at 8:00 p.m. In addition to support from Standard Beverage and Chlumsky's Liquormart, the event is sponsored, in part, by Larry and Kathy Schugart, Dominican Sisters of Peace, the Great Bend Tribune, Robert J. Schmisseur - Attorney at Law, Pryor Automatic Fire Sprinkler Inc, First Kansas Bank, Great Bend Farm & Ranch Expo, and Larry and Pat Keenan, and Rosie Meier. The Annual Wine Tasting Event is the major fundraiser for Catholic Charities, helping the agency meet community needs for pregnancy and teen mom support, infant adoption, addiction and mental health counseling, relationship education and family support services, emergency assistance, non-food pantry supplies, housing assistance, immigration and refugee support, and disaster relief for tornadoes, wildfires, flooding and other destructive events. For more information and reservations for the event, visit www.CatholicCharitiesSWKS.org, or contact Rebecca Ford at 620-792-1393, rford@CatholicCharitiesSWKS.org, or in person at the Catholic Charities office located at 2201 16th Street, Great Bend KS.
HORSETHIEF RESERVOIR WELCOMES NEW EMPLOYEE Patrons and Guests of HorseThief Reservoir: On behalf of HorseThief Reservoir, we are proud to introduce the newest member of our team, Rebecca Wyatt; Facilities Specialist/Ranger. Many of you will remember Rebecca from her multiple years of part time seasonal employment at the lake. With her experience, education, and outstanding work ethic. We feel she was perfect fit for the job. If you see Becca in the park, feel free to stop and say hello!
For more information about HorseThief Reservoir, visit www.horsethiefreservoir.com
April 2019
The Business Advantage
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GIFFORD RECEIVES NIAAA STATE AWARD OF MERIT Kansas Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association awards Jay Gifford, NIAAA State Award of Merit. KIAAA Board of Directors select the winners nominated by Kansas athletic directors. Gifford said that he is both humbled and honored by this recognition. It’s rewarding to see coaches further develop leadership skills as athletic directors.” Gifford works tirelessly to promote Dodge City Athletics and Sports Teams. He is at the center of the Dodge City Sports Commission working to coordinate community events, facilities, and organization. According to Superintendent Dr. Fred Dierksen, “Jay Gifford is very deserving of this award. His passion and dedication have had a tremendous impact on our athletic department.” Lisa Killion, BOE President, recognized Gifford for this achievement during the BOE meeting on March 25, 2019.
HIGH SCHOOL PRINCIPAL VISITS WASHINGTON, D.C. Local principal Jacque Feist visited Washington, DC to encourage Kansas’s members of Congress to pass laws that enhance the nation’s public schools. The visit was part of the annual Advocacy Conference, sponsored by the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP). Feist met with Senator Moran, Senator Roberts, Representative Marshall, Representative Estes, and Representative Watkins to discuss issues relevant to USD 443 and Southwest Kansas. Topics included funding for most needy and disadvantaged students, IDEA, professional development for teachers, and Career and Technical Educational. Focusing on high quality technical programs is vital to meeting the demands of the 21st century workforce. In addition, we have immediate needs to access mental health support for students in our communities. “As a principal, my job is to provide each student in my school every resource and opportunity possible so they can reach their full potential,” said Jacque Feist. “That job extends to advocating for my students at the highest levels of government. I believe my conversations with members of Congress and their staff gave them a clearer impression of the impact their decisions have on schools here in Dodge City.” Jacque Feist was one of 180 school leaders from across the country who converged on Washington, DC, March 18–20 for the annual NASSP Advocacy Conference. The event included a series of presentations and panel discussions on the most pressing federal policies affecting education and culminated with a day of visits to elected officials at their offices on Capitol Hill. About NASSP The National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP) is the leading organization of and voice for principals and other school leaders across the United States. NASSP seeks to transform education through school leadership, recognizing that the fulfillment of each student's potential relies on great leaders in every school committed to the success of each student. Reflecting its long-standing commitment to student leadership development, NASSP administers the National Honor Society, National Junior Honor Society, National Elementary Honor Society, and National Student Council.
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The Business Advantage
I DON’T CARE REMAINS OPEN AND OFFERS CHAMBER MEMBER DISCOUNT Earlier this year I Don’t Care Family Restaurant and Sports Bar announced it would be closing their doors in May, but due to other restaurants closing and increased business they will remain open. During the month of April I Don’t Care is offering 10% off any meal for Dodge City Area Chamber of Commerce members. Be sure to support your fellow Chamber member and stop by for lunch or dinner. If you stop by during lunch be sure to bring a business card and you will be entered into a drawing for a free lunch. Each Friday they will draw a card and that person will get a free lunch with a purchase of a lunch. I Don’t Care is located at 1510 W. Spruce St. in Dodge City.
April 2019
HOSPICE EMPLOYEE EARNS ELITE CREDENTIAL Hospice of the Prairie & Prairie Home Health is proud to announce Tasha Algrim, RN CHPN WCC has earned the elite credential of Certified Hospice and Palliative Care (CHPN) Registered Nurse. Earning the CHPN credential involves a process that validates one’s expertise in a specialty area, indicating mastery of a defined body of knowledge. The CHPN certification is recognized as an indication of personal ambition and excellence. Tasha has also earned Registered Nurse Wound Care Certification. Tasha is a great example of the positive attitude and determination of the staff at Hospice of the Prairie & Prairie Home Health, committed to becoming the most compassionate professionals they can be, actively learning and serving the community.
About Hospice of the Prairie & Prairie Home Health Hospice of the Prairie & Prairie Home Health has been a part of Dodge City and the surrounding communities for over 30 years. As a non-profit community based organization, Hospice of the Prairie & Prairie Home Health serves the communities of Southwestern Kansas with compassionate and professional hospice and palliative care, home health care and grief support services. Member of the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization since 1991, Kansas Hospice and Palliative Care Organization since 1991, Kansas Home Care and Hospice Association since 1996.
Your business can advertise here!
Contact the Dodge City Chamber of Commerce for more details! (620) 227-3119
Customer Service 1-888-890-5554
www.blackhillsenergy.com
Your business can advertise here!
Contact the Dodge City Chamber of Commerce for more details! (620) 227-3119
We have a duly appointed Notary Public on staff. Stop by the Chamber Office at 101 E. Wyatt Earp to get your document notorized. This service is free to Chamber members.
April 2019
The Business Advantage
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LOOK WHAT’S NEW AT OLIVE & IVY SALON AND SPA Olive & Ivy Salon and Spa located at 112 South Main Street in Cimarron Kansas is celebrating "Aveda Earth Month 2019" through the month of April. As an Aveda partner, Olive and Ivy will be holding a special event on April 22nd from 6:30 to 8:00 to help celebrate. The event will feature the following with 100% of all funds raised to be sent to CharityWater/Aveda to help bring clean safe drinking water to people in need in India, Nepal, Madagascar, and Ethiopia. Free will donation at the door with drinks and snacks provided. Jackie Vath, ARPN with Western Plains Primary Care, will have a booth to disucss skin cancer awareness. Roots Juice Company will be here to discuss and offer samples of healthy fruit and vegetable juices. Kim, Owner, will have a booth to discuss Aveda hair and skin products for sun protection. Eye brow threading techniques will be demonstrated by Annette, stylist. Free hand massages. Tours of the salon and spa. Purchase a $1.00 ticket for chance to win a 30 minute facial, $10 off any service coupons, Olive & Ivy t-shirt, and travel products.
UPDATES FROM THE CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU National Travel and Tourism Week The Dodge City Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB) will be celebrating National Travel and Tourism Week May 5-11, 2019. National Travel and Tourism Week brings attention to the impact of tourism in the community of Dodge City. Please join the CVB team for a Chamber Coffee and reception on May 7th from 9 AM to 10:30 AM at the Dodge City Visitor Information Center located at 400 W. Wyatt Earp Blvd. and learn more about tourism in our community. Complimentary Trolley Tours are available on that day starting at 9:30 AM. National Train Day One hundred fifty years ago on May 10th, 1869 the completion of the Frist Transcontinental Railroad was celebrated with a Gold Spike ceremony in Salt Lake City, Utah. This railroad has had a significant impact on transportation across the United States including in our home town of Dodge City. Please join the Dodge City Convention and Visitors Bureau as we celebrate the Gold Spike Ceremony and National Train Day on May 11th from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM at the Historic Santa Fe Depot. Refreshments and Tours of the Historical Depot building will be available. Complimentary Trolley Tours will be available this day at the Dodge City Visitors Center located at 400 W. Wyatt Earp Blvd. at 9:00 AM, 10:30 AM, 1:30 PM, and 3:00 PM. Vote Dodge City The 2019 10Best Readers’ Choice Travel awards promoted by USA TODAY informed the Dodge City Convention and Visitors Bureau about a nomination to the category of “Best Historic Small Town.” With all the efforts of our community to preserve our western history, it’s no wonder that Dodge City has been nominated for the second year in a row for this award. You can vote for Dodge City daily until May 6th at https://www.10best. com/awards/travel/best-historic-small-town/dodge-city-kansas/.
Your business can advertise here!
Your business can advertise here!
620-225-2888 www.parkerhaskins.com Contact the Dodge City Chamber of Commerce for more details! (620) 227-3119
Contact the Dodge City Chamber of Commerce for more details! (620) 227-3119
Central & Comanche Dodge City, Kansas
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The Business Advantage
April 2019
MEET OUR COMMITTEE MEMBERS BJ Buehler Ambassador Committee Chairman BJ grew up in Claflin, KS and also attended school there. He enjoyed growing up in a small town, farming and ranching on the family farm. Sporting activities, hunting and trying to stay out of trouble with his three brothers absorbed most of his spare time. BJ joined the Army Reserves during his junior year of high school and attended Basic Training during the summer after his junior year of high school at Ft. McClellan, AL. Graduating in 1997, he then attended US Army Military Police School, again at Ft. McClellan. After completion he returned home and attended Sterling College on a football scholarship. Injuries cut short his playing days at Sterling and BJ transferred home to Barton County Community College and then to Fort Hays State University. Not sure of the direction he wanted to follow vocation wise, he finished his general ed coursework at Hays in the fall semester of 2001. Shortly after the bombing of the twin towers, BJ felt drawn to serve his country full time as a soldier. BJ went active duty in Jan. 2002 and was station at Ft Riley KS. Shortly after arriving at Ft. Riley, he was deployed to Guantanamo Bay, Cuba to work as a guard at Camp Delta. Camp Delta is the prison that house detainees captured in the war on terror. It was during this deployment that BJ was interviewed by Bill O’Riley and featured on The O’Riley Factor on Fox News. BJ returned to Ft. Riley in December on 2002 and stayed there until June of 2004, when he moved to Cimarron, KS. BJ stayed in the Army as a reservist, and again deployed, this time to Al Anbar Province, Iraq in 2007. He returned home to Cimarron in June of 2008 and started a Trucking Company and operated and managed it for four years. Looking for a career change that offered more time at home with his family, a friend suggested insurance sales. In June of 2012 BJ started working for the Knights of Columbus as a Field Agent and was an immediate leader in the organization. In April of 2017, BJ started working with American Family Insurance, Chris Boys Agency, as a sales specialist in all lines and areas of insurance. In September of 2018, a second office for the agency was opened in Cimarron. In November of 2018, BJ was selected to serve as our Chairman of the Dodge City Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors. He also serves on the Dodge City Multi-Cultural Committee, and is a Rotarian with the Dodge City Rotary Club. BJ has four children, Booklyn 15, Bailee 13, Kelby 9 and Kasch 8. When not supporting them in their school and sporting activities, working for American Family, or at a Chamber event, he enjoys team roping on his horse named Django.
Your business can advertise here!
Your business can advertise here!
Contact the Dodge City Chamber of Commerce for more details! (620) 227-3119
Contact the Dodge City Chamber of Commerce for more details! (620) 227-3119
April 2019
The Business Advantage
Page 9
LOOK WHAT WE’VE BEEN UP TO Coffees, Ribbon Cuttings, and Networking
On Thursday, March 21, the Chamber Ambassadors celebrated the opening ceremonies of the 65th Annual 3i Show with a ribbon cutting. The 2020 3i Show will be held on March 19, 20, 21.
The Dodge City Public Library celebrated the opening of their new children’s section with a ribbon cutting and Open House on Wednesday, April 10th. The Public Library is located at 1001 N. 2nd St. in Dodge City.