Regional tourism association is an ongoing grassroots effort
By ROWENA PLETT
Staff writer
A group of more than 20 individuals met March 21 at Council Grove in an ongoing effort to promote tourism in Marion, Morris, Chase, and Dickinson counties.
The name of the group was changed from Flint Hills Heritage Alliance to Flint Hills Tourism Association.
According to Stan Thiessen, a member of the coalition, the association's goal is to put forth positive efforts for tourism in this Flint Hills region.
"This group is unique because it is owned by the participants which have initiated it," Thiessen said. "That is its strength."
The group is planning a workshop for interested individuals. It will feature a speaker experienced in the tourism business.
The group also plans to organize an annual regional farm and ranch tour.
A list of area attractions and available lodging is being compiled. The association hopes to develop a brochure and have representation at the Kansas Sampler Festival.
Thiessen said future meetings will focus on practical aspects of developing a tourism business.
"The meetings will be producer-driven rather than focusing on economic development," he said.
Thiessen envisions the group teaming up with other regional groups for certain projects. He gave as an example the I-70 tourism association, through which tourists could be linked to this region.
The contact person for the Flint Hills Tourism Association is Deb Zeiner of Cottonwood Falls Chamber of Commerce. She can be reached by phone at (620) 273-7017 or e-mail at chamber@bulldognet.com.
The next meeting will be April 26 at the Hayes House in Council Grove. Thiessen said anybody with interest or ideas to share is welcome to attend and be part of the group.
