President's Report

As November comes to an end, and we head into the Christmas season, I have been reflecting on the things that I am most thankful for. There is always the gift of my family, and this year I am truly grateful for the fact that my parents now live in Lindsborg and are no longer nearly three hours away. It has been good to spend time with them in ways that I have not enjoyed for many years, simply due to distance. Professionally, I am most thankful for an amazing year of projects and partnerships within my community, and for the incredible network of colleagues across the state that I frequently also refer to as friends. Your ideas and energy inspire me and your mentorships have been invaluable to my growth. Thank you to each of you for loving Kansas well and for sharing each and every important attraction that continues to make our tourism economy grow. I am thankful for each of you. Very. 

To the Stars…

Holly

Destination Statehouse registration opens next month! Space will be available for communities to showcase on the 2nd floor Rotunda (registration required).

Thank you to those who donated to the TIAK PAC.

Rep. Ken Rahjes, R-Agra, accepts a check from Roger Hrabe, Rooks County Economic Development.

Rooks County Economic Development Director, Roger Hrabe, presents a check to Rep. Adam Smith, R-Weskan.

Sen. Elaine Bowers, R-Concordia, accepts a check from Roger Hrabe, Rooks County Economic Development.

Rep. Troy Waymaster, R-Bunker Hill, accepts a check from Roger Hrabe, Rooks County Economic Development.

Membership Survey: We Need Your Feedback

TIAK is surveying members for information on size, budget, and TGT dollars so that we can better serve you through the allocation of membership levels, marketing awards levels, and other related items.

In Case You Missed "Sunflower Snapshot" Series – Your Ultimate Guide to TIAK & Kansas Tourism!

Are you new to the tourism industry or exploring Kansas for the first time? Our video series, "Sunflower Snapshots," is here to answer all your questions and help you navigate the vibrant world of Kansas tourism.

Series Overview:

Our 15-part video series covers everything a newcomer needs to know and insider tips for industry professionals. Each video is designed to provide you with the essential knowledge to make the most out of your Kansas Tourism experience.

Join us on this exciting adventure and let "Sunflower Snapshots" be your guide to navigating the tourism world with us in the Sunflower State.

Join TIAK and Kansas Tourism for a virtual Kansas tourism industry huddle the 2nd Wednesday of each month at 1 PM CT. View past huddles here.

U.S. Travel Praises Progress on Visa Processing

U.S. Travel Association President and CEO Geoff Freeman applauded "the Biden administration for taking important steps to welcome international visitors." This is an important milestone for U.S. Travel's efforts to streamline, increase and grow the international travel segment - especially as we prepare for the 2026 World Cup and the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles. This effort positions the United States for unmatched success as we enter a decade packed with major sporting events - strengthening our industry and ensuring our nation remains the top travel destination in the world Learn more.

Job Posting Available

TIAK is committed to keeping our members connected and assisting with promoting job openings and internships. We've added a new job posting to the website. Check it out!

Labor Market Report

Please find the link below to the Labor Market report. The November 2024 Labor Report will be released on Friday, December 20, 2024.

October 2024 Labor Market Report: https://klic.dol.ks.gov/vosnet/gsipub/documentView.aspx?enc=O+qpCkhjA+v3dzYVbAEMjQ==  

Scroll down to Labor Report Documents for the News Release and Labor Force Data for the “Interactive Labor Force Dashboard” and “Printable County Unemployment Rate Map”.

October Lodging Report

TIAK has an agreement with Smith Travel Research (STR) to provide members with statewide reports on hotel occupancy each month. The following data is provided directly from STR:

Monthly and YTD Comparisons

Kansas had 61% property participation and 78% hotel room participation in October.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Tourism Huddle

Second Wednesday of each month

December 11

TIAK Executive Committee Meetings

January 9

TIAK Board Meetings

February 13

Event Dates

Destination Statehouse

February 12 - Topeka

Registration opens next month