Volume 31 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
July 2018
Issue 7
AIRMEDCARE KEEEPING YOU AND YOUR EMPLOYEES PROTECTED The AirMedCare Network is an alliance of affiliated air ambulance providers – the largest of its kind in the United States. An AirMedCare Network membership automatically enrolls you in all the participating provider’s membership programs, giving you membership coverage across a combined 38 state service area. As a Dodge City Area Chamber of Commerce member you can receive a discounted EagleMed/ AirMedCare Network membership for you and all of your employees. While the membership supports the local bases, the primary reason for the membership is that it covers all out-of-pocket costs if you (or someone in your household) shouldhave an air ambulance flight with EagleMed or another of their providers.
ENCOURAGES CITIZEN ADVOCACY citizen participation to build a better Dodge City FACILITATES LEADERSHIP training ground for future leaders IS TECHNOLOGY FOCUSED increase value to all members
Currently and EagleMed/AMCN member?
If you are currently and EagleMed/AirMedCare Network member, you may extend your membership with the discounted rate for however long you would like (1 year, 3 years, 5 years or 10 years). This term begins on the date that your current membership term ends with no overlap or lapse in coverage. If you would like to check on your membership status, please call 1-800-793-0010.
Entire Household Covered
Membership covers all people living in the household. It is important to make sure all members of the household are written onto the membership application. This would include anyone who uses your address as his/her permanent address (students in college).
THE CHAMBER IS VERY EXCITED TO WELCOME OUR JUNE NEW MEMBER:
Fierro Automotive Service Team
Discounted Rates
10 Year 5 Year 3 Year 1 Year
$575 entire household $300 entire household $185 entire household $65 entire household
For more information or for an application contact the Chamber office at 620-227-3119 or contact Nate Brown at 785-216-9087. Be sure to tell Nate you are a Dodge City Area Chamber of Commerce member to receive the discounted rate!
Page 2
BOARD OF DIRECTORS OFFICERS
Michael Burns, Chairman of the Board Landmark National Bank Shane Laws, Chairman-Elect Victory Electric Jeff Renner, Immediate Past Chair United Wireless Communications
DIRECTORS
Michael Burns, Landmark National Bank Kerry Tirman, Western Plains Medical Complex Alicia Edwards, DC Women’s Chamber Shane Laws, Victory Electric Lauren Morse, Fischer Chiropractic David Rebein, Rebein Brothers Law Jeff Renner, United Wireless Communications 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
EX OFFICIO MEMBERS
John Bogner, Western Beverage Fred Dierksen, Superintendent USD 443 J.D. Gilbert, Ford County Joann Knight, DC/FC Dev Corp Director Jeff Hiers, DC/FC Dev Corp Chairman 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
The Business Advantage
July 2018
GEIST RETIRES FROM SWKAAA The Board of Directors for the SouthWest Kansas Area Agency On Aging (SWKAAA) accepted the retirement of Dave Geist, executive director, effective July 6. Geist has held this position since February 1, 1985. “It has been real a privilege to serve the board and to lead the agency these past 33 years. Now I plan to join the ranks of the people I have been assisting all these years,” according to Geist. Under Geist’s tenure the agency has grown from six employees to the present 20 and there are now four regional offices besides the central office in Dodge City. “Over the years we have added new programs and services thanks in part to some visionary board members who saw the need for change and I want to thank them for their guidance and leadership. And it required some dedicated staff to implement these programs that I have enjoyed working with. These are good people who have a passion for their jobs and the people we serve.” Geist is excited about the future of SWKAAA. Kansas is an aging state and there will be many opportunities for the agency to expand its services in the coming years to better serve seniors and the disability community. “We’re talking about my future, so I want the best!” Geist’s final meeting with the board was June 19 and his last official day on the job was Friday, July 6. He plans to remain in Dodge City and continue volunteering in the community, for his church, and the Boy Scouts of America.
UPCOMING CHAMBER COFFEE hosted by Dodge City Roundup Rodeo
608 S. 14th Ave, Dodge City, KS (@ the Rodeo Grounds)
Tuesday, July 24th - 9:00 a.m. -10:30 a.m.
July 2018
The Business Advantage
Page 3
Company: United Telephone Association, Inc. Job Title: Accountant How to Apply: Applications may be found on the following websites: http://unitedwireless.com/jobs or http://www.unitedtelcom.net Company: PepsiCo Job Title: Unit Sales Manager How to Apply: Apply at www.pepsicojobs.com Company: United Telephone Association Job Title: Marketing Coordinator How to Apply: Interested applicants should submit an application, cover letter, and a resume to: United Telephone Association, Inc. Elizabeth Neuschafer 1107 McArtor Rd. PO Box 117 Dodge City, KS 67801 Company: Dodge City Community College Job Title: Bus Driver - Part Time How to Apply: Please call 620-227-9404 for instructions on how to apply. Company: Prime on the Nine Job Title: Bartender How to Apply: Apply in person at 1800 Matt Down Lane, Dodge City, KS
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
Page 4
The Business Advantage
July 2018
FOUNDATION DONORS STEP IN TO UPDATE CONQ CORRAL By Scott Edger
When students return to the Dodge City Community College campus in August, those looking to take a break from their studies will have an updated place to unwind thanks to the enthusiastic response of two generous DC3 alumni. When board members of the DC3 Foundation were on campus just a couple weeks ago, some pointed out that the Conq Corral snack bar had changed very little since their time as students some 30 years ago. They remembered how important downtime – away from studying, away from the dorms, away from the grind of student life – was for their own college career, and observed that the lamentable condition of much of the snack bar needed to change for the benefit of future Conqs. Sympathetic hearts set out to quickly remedy the archaic environment, and with a few persuasive phone calls the Foundation had secured donations for a severely needed upgrade to what should be a central campus retreat. Ashley Furniture HomeStore owner David Weece, John Wentling, owner of G&G Car and Truck Supercenters, promptly responded to the call to improve the dilapidated snack bar – agreeing in the matter of an afternoon to donate brand new furniture, electronics and tech upgrades, and funds to refurbish the gaming tables and walls. “We are grateful to have Foundation donors who are so responsive to the needs of students,” Christina Haselhorst, DC3 Foundation director, said as a half dozen Ashley Furniture workers hauled in new dining tables, recliners, electronics, and an entertainment center. “It’s so beneficial for students to have a place to meet their friends and just relax.” The update came none too soon for the Conq Corral – even DC3 president Dr. Harold Nolte joked that much of the furniture had been in style when he went through college. Weece and Wentling are both DC3 alumni and their donations ultimately came down to a desire to afford current and future students the opportunity to comfortably unwind and disconnect from the daily rigors of college life in a contemporary setting. “The college experience is as important as the education,” Wentling said. “If they don’t have somewhere to have great times and make great friends and build those relationships, those students might not come back for another year. It’s an important part of college, so we are happy to do this.” “Technology is a big deal for these kids,” Wentling said. “Staying on top of technology is going to bring new students in.” Weece said the efforts are a good demonstration of how the Foundation can impact the student experience directly. “We saw that need to freshen up the place for the kids,” Weece said. “This should be a nice place for them to go or hang out between classes, so when it was brought to our attention we took the opportunity.” Aside from the new furnishings and entertainment, the Corral itself has been given a bit of a makeover. The floor has been stripped and polished and the old wood paneling is gone – replaced by smooth white walls patiently awaiting treatment. Jennifer Nolan, associate professor of art, is arranging to have DC3 art students cover the new walls with a mural. Work should begin in August. For more information about the Dodge City Community College Foundation contact Christina Haselhorst at 620-225-9541 or chaselhorst@dc3.edu.
Your business can advertise here!
Contact the Dodge City Chamber of Commerce for more details! (620) 227-3119
Find the Chamber on Face-
July 2018
The Business Advantage
Page 5
DODGE CITY EYE CARE OFFERS BACK TO SCHOOL SCREENINGS Dodge City Eye Care understands that you have a choice when it comes to Dodge City optometry, so they strive to provide comprehensive eye exams, a great selection of glasses, and personalized care. Go visit Dr. Monica Rein-Moore and her staff at 105 Layton St. for all of your eye care needs!
YMCA OFFERS SIZZLING SUMMER SPECIALS
Page 6
The Business Advantage
July 2018
PAINT DODGE - PROVIDING ASSISTANCE TO HOMEOWNERS Another home painted by Paint Dodge! Paint Dodge provides assistance to eligible homeowners in Dodge City to assist them to repaint the exterior of their homes and alleviate deteriorating housing conditions within the City. Paint Dodge is a program of the Community Housing Association of Dodge City (CHAD) and is funded through a grant from the Community Foundation of Southwest Kansas. More information can be found at http://dodgecityhousing.com/housing-programs/paint-dodge/.
CHAD LOOKS FOR NEXT HOME RENOVATION PROJECT The Community Housing Association of Dodge City (CHAD) operates the Abandoned Housing Program. The Abandoned Housing Program acquires vacant homes throughout the community, rehabilitates the homes and places them back into service as quality housing. These rehabbed homes fit into the low- to -moderate income levels and creates safe affordable housing for our community. One advantages of the Abandoned Housing Program is neighborhood stabilization. The renovation of older homes not only improves the quality of the neighborhood, but also removes blight and reduces crime that comes with vacant houses. Rehabbing vacant homes is cost effective, innovative and succeeds in making more housing units available to the community. Rehabilitating abandoned housing puts property back onto the tax roll. We can do more for less. Thanks to in-kind donations of material and labor from our supporters, CHAD is able to complete these renovations and improvements at reduced costs. To date, CHAD has renovated six homes; four of which have been sold and two are rentals. "Living in a CHAD home as been beneficial to my daughter and I because it has given us the opportunity to live in a nice home that is within a single income budget" said Naomi who is our current renter. Margarita, who purchased our first rehabilitated home said "I am a single mother of three young girls and I am very thankful that I was able to find an affordable and beautiful home through the Community Housing Association of Dodge City. Because of this program, it made my dream of becoming a home owner a reality, I couldn't have done it without the Community Housing Association." CHAD is a 501 (c)(3) organization that accepts donations of most real estate. A charitable house donation can secure you a meaningful tax deduction while freeing yourself from a financially hindering property. Please contact Mollea at 620-371-3869 if you would like further information.
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.
July 2018
The Business Advantage
Page 7
MAIN STREET PIGEON MANAGEMENT PROGRAM Thursday, November 1, 2018 from 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM Boot Hill Casino Conference Center (4100 W Comanche Street, Dodge City, KS 67801) Lunch Event - Registration $75 Business leaders are turning to the Dodge City Regional Economic Outlook Conference for a glimpse into the region's economic future. Founded by Wichita State University's W. Frank Barton School of Business, the Center for Economic Development and Business Research (CEDBR), and the Dodge City/Ford County Development Corporation ; the purpose of the conference is to provide insight into current local and national economies, addressing topics of interest to the community, region, and state. A combination of state and local experts will be on hand to provide perspectives on issues affecting business, industry, education and government. Register now: https://secure.touchnet.com/C21797_ustores/web/classic/product_detail.jsp?PRODU CTID=676&SINGLESTORE=true
Main Street Dodge City, in cooperation with the Tourism Task Force, has established a Pigeon Management Program. This program is designed to achieve its purpose by providing an attractive financial incentive for current and prospective property owners in the downtown area. The purpose of this program is to safely, effectively and responsibly exclude pigeons from residing in and around properties in the Main Street district. This program also allows for the cleanup and restoration of those areas damaged by pigeon infestation. Applications for the grant can be accessed by visiting MainStreetDodgeCity.org or contacting the Main Street Dodge City office at 620-227-9501 or krissy@dodgedev.org. Grants will be awarded on a first come, first serve basis. For questions or additional information, please contact Krissy Lampe at 620-227-9501.
Presented by the Center for Economic Development and Business Research Phone: (316) 978-3225 www.cedbr.org
BUSY JULY FOR THE CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU The month of July not only holds the start of Dodge City Days for the staff at the Dodge City Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB) but also several other exciting events. Dodge City is hosting the 2nd Annual Brothers of the Third Wheel National Trike-In from July 12-15. A weeks’ worth of fun awaits this group including a journey out to Fort Dodge Soldier’s Home, a Lighted Trike Parade, and a Trike Show. The Trike Headquarters (Trike Central) will be based out of the Hoover Pavilion where local riders are encouraged to register and join in on the fun. More information can also be found at the Dodge City CVB’s Facebook page and www.visitdodgecity.org. Following the trikes a heard of Mini Coopers will be headed through Dodge City on July 19. With a national event of “Minis Take the States”, Dodge City is an overnight stopping point for the east group as they head to their final destination in Colorado. The morning of July 20th they will be setup at the Untied Wireless arena from 7 – 10 am before they head out to their next stop. Be on the lookout during Dodge City Days for travel writers that will be heading to Dodge to take in the festivities. The Dodge City CVB has been contacted by a couple of these writers that are wanting to know what the fuss is all about. They will be taking in as many activities and attractions as possible during their stay. As the citizens of Dodge City are beginning to enjoy the Dodge City Days events some of the CVB staff and other community partners will be heading to Pittsburg, KS for the 2018 Shrine Bowl. There the staff will be learning the ins and outs of what it takes to produce and execute this huge annual event in preparation for the 2019 Shrine Bowl that will taking place in our own Dodge City.
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
Page 8
The Business Advantage
July 2018
MAXWELL, THE PUPPY, JOINS SUNPORCH OF DODGE CITY FAMILY Maxwell, an 8-month-old rescue dog, went from leading a lonely existence at the animal shelter to being the life of the party with his new extended family at SunPorch of Dodge City. The puppy officially belongs to Gina Salmans, SunPorch activities director. But she often brings Max to work to brighten the days for elders at the long-term-care residence, 501 W. Beeson Rd. “There is something so special and therapeutic about an animal interacting with elders,” Salmans said. “Most people here love having Max as part of the family. “However,” she added, “we get to know our residents’ likes and dislikes. If someone prefers to not interact with a pet, we honor that decision.” The activities director noted that her research indicates that scientific studies have shown interaction with animals can significantly improve physical and emotional health. “Pets have unconditional love for their human friends,” Salmans said. “They don’t care what we look like or where we live. But they can make us feel better physically and mentally.” Many SunPorch elders helped choose the name for the new addition to the family. “I asked them to place their favorite names in a basket and we had a drawing for the name. Maxwell was the winner,” Salmans explained. Salmans said Max is her favorite breed – a rescue dog. But the Humane Society speculates he is part Maltese and part poodle. The best guess is Max was born in November last year. Max currently has his service-dog license and, when he is old enough, Salmans hopes he will earn his therapy-dog certification. “Max is already very social and enjoys his time here as much our elders enjoy his company,” Salmans commented. “We even take him on some of our outings into the community.” This isn’t Salmans’ first foray into working with a service dog. A few years ago, she was training another animal for the long-term-care setting. “I got Luci when she was 8 weeks old; it broke my heart when we lost her,” Salmans recalled. “It took me a while, but I am glad I am doing this again. “I believe in the power of healing when it comes to animals for just about anyone. I hope other families will consider adopting a pet for themselves or a loved one who can use an ever-faithful companion.” Ryan Salinas, SunPorch administrator, said he is glad Salmans came up with the idea of having a furry friend visit the elders. “It is really great having Max in our home,” Salinas said. “When Gina brought the idea to me she was well prepared for the questions she knew I would ask. I am glad she was persistent,” he laughed. “The elders here light up when Max comes around and they love his personality.” Patsy Burnett, like many other SunPorch of Dodge City elders, enjoys her time with Maxwell, the rescue dog that often visits the long-term-care residence.
PO Box 37 • 100 McArtor Rd. Dodge City, KS 67801 620-225-2622 www.diamond-roofing.com
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
Page 9
The Business Advantage
July 2018
Saturday, July 14th 11:30 am
Saturday, July 14th 5:00pm
Tuesday, July 17th 10:00am